that even rats can become heroes." The novel illustrates the applications of science and knowledge, portraying science as neither wholly good nor entirely bad. Although Nicodemus recounts the suffering caused by scientific experiments on animals, neither the scientists nor science itself is portrayed as malicious. Dr. Schultz is criticized for his lack of understanding regarding the experiments' consequences, yet he is not depicted as evil; when handling the rats, he does so "gently but firmly." Mr. Ages acts as a healer, saving Timothy's life with medicine. The relocation of Mrs. Frisby's home is only possible due to the rats' unique knowledge, which other animals lack. The Plan necessitates the rats leaving their comfortable environment, yet still involves scientific knowledge; Nicodemus and others have studied science to develop their agricultural community. In a book like this, it would be simple to label science as "bad," but a careful reading reveals that criticism is balanced with acknowledgment of science's benefits when used correctly.

The novel's primary concerns revolve around how to apply what one learns and how to live life most effectively. O'Brien suggests that in today's technological era, more responsible use of natural resources might lead to a less physically comfortable lifestyle, but ultimately a more self-reliant and fulfilling existence. This approach requires the constructive use of modern technology, rather than its abuse.

In 1982, MGM/United Artists released The Secret of NIMH, a remarkable film featuring vibrant and intricate animation that often employs warm, striking colors to enhance the atmosphere. The movie is adapted from the novel, closely following its main storyline and characters. While Mrs. Frisby's name is altered to Mrs. Brisby, the names of other characters remain unchanged. To emphasize the animals' human-like qualities, the mice and rats are depicted wearing clothing, and Mrs. Brisby's home is furnished with furniture.

The film amplifies the horror of animal experimentation, as Nicodemus describes "the most unspeakable tortures to satisfy some scientific curiosity." It also more clearly defines the battle between good and evil. Jenner is driven by a "lust for power," adopting the philosophy of "take what you can, when you can." He stays within the rat colony, using the guise of relocating Mrs. Brisby's home to attempt the "undoing of the Rats of NIMH."

In the novel, the rats' evolution is explained as a result of injections at NIMH, but the movie introduces a magical element. Nicodemus gives Mrs. Brisby a magical amulet, telling her, "Courage of the heart is very rare. The stone has a power when it's there." This amulet's power is unleashed during the film's climax.

The Secret of NIMH thus presents a dramatic contrast of characters, with good and evil portrayed through magic and violence. Unlike the novel, the film's epilogue resolves the lingering questions.

Burr, Elizabeth. "Newbery and Caldecott Awards." In Children and Literature: Views and Reviews, edited by Virginia Haviland. New York: Scott, Foresman, 1973. This article details the selection process for Newbery Award-winning books.

Conly, Sally M. "Robert C. O'Brien." In Fourth Book of Junior Authors and Illustrators, edited by Doris DeMontreville and E. D. Crawford. New York: H. W. Wilson, 1978. Conly provides an in-depth look at O'Brien's personal life and passions.

Kingman, Lee, ed. Newbery and Caldecott Medal Books 1966-1975. Boston: Horn Book, 1975. The Horn Book Magazine, August 1972, features O'Brien's Newbery Award acceptance speech alongside a biographical profile. This book compiles that speech and others from Newbery Medal recipients for convenient access. Many concepts from O'Brien's Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH are discussed in his speech.