The Lion and the Mouse

Quick Answer

Why This Story Works for Bedtime

It’s short, calming, and uplifting. The ending is safe and satisfying, and the lesson—kindness matters no matter your size—feels perfect for bedtime reassurance.

Story Synopsis

A lion lies down to rest when a tiny mouse scurries across his paw. With one quick swipe the lion catches the mouse, ready to crush it. The mouse trembles and begs for mercy, promising that one day it might repay the kindness. The lion chuckles—how could something so small ever help something so strong? Still, he chooses mercy and lets the mouse go. Not long after, hunters capture the lion in a strong net. He roars and strains, but the ropes hold tight. This time, strength alone isn’t enough. The mouse hears the roar, recognizes the lion, and remembers the gift of mercy. Without hesitating, the mouse runs to the net and begins chewing through the ropes—one strand, then another, then another—until the net loosens and the lion can escape. The lion is astonished. The mouse is exhausted but proud. They both learn the same simple truth: kindness is never wasted, and help can come from places you don’t expect. The Lion and the Mouse is a short, soothing fable—perfect for bedtime—because it offers a brief moment of danger and a safe, satisfying rescue. It leaves children with a comforting idea: even when you feel small, you can still do something important.

Story Excerpt

A Lion lay asleep in the forest, where tall trees made cool patches of shade on the ground. His great golden head rested on his paws, and his breathing was slow and steady, like a deep, peaceful drum. Not far away, a little Mouse hurried along the leaf litter. She was small and quiet, and she liked to keep to herself. But that day, she was startled by a sudden sound — an owl shifting above, or a twig snapping under her own feet. In her surprise, she darted the wrong way. Before she could stop herself, she scampered right across the Lion’s nose. The Lion’s eyes opened at once. In a single swift movement, he lifted a huge paw and set it down over the tiny Mouse, holding her still. The Mouse trembled. She could feel the Lion’s warm breath, and she could see the dark shadow of his paw. She spoke as bravely as she could. “ Spare me! ” begged the poor Mouse. “ Please let me go and some day I will surely repay you. ” The Lion blinked. Then, to his own surprise, a rumbling chuckle rolled up from his chest. The idea of a Mouse helping a Lion seemed very funny to…

In One Glance