The Tale of Johnny Town-Mouse

Quick Answer

Why This Story Works for Bedtime

The contrast is clear and soothing: bustling scenes give way to calm ones, and the ending affirms comfort and belonging. It’s a gentle way to talk about overstimulation and the relief of quiet.

Story Synopsis

Johnny Town-Mouse arrives in the countryside expecting adventure, while his country cousin imagines the town as glamorous. They decide to trade places and experience each other’s lives. In the city, the country mouse is dazzled by fancy rooms and tempting food, but also frightened by sudden noises, pets, and the constant rush. In the country, Johnny enjoys fresh air and simple meals, yet misses the tidy comforts and routines of town. As each mouse faces what feels stressful, they realize there’s no single best place—only the place that fits their nature. In the end, both return to where they feel at ease, grateful for what they learned. The story reassures children that it’s okay to prefer quiet, or excitement, and that home should feel safe.

Story Excerpt

Johnny Town mouse was born in a cupboard in a busy house in town Timmy Willie was born in a garden where the air smelled of earth and leaves and the loudest sounds were usually birds and bees Timmy Willie was a little country mouse who went to town by mistake Once a week the gardener sent vegetables into town by carrier He packed them in a big wicker hamper and left it by the garden gate so the carrier could pick it up One day Timmy Willie sniffed the hamper and found a small hole in the wicker work Oh he thought peas He wriggled inside nibbled a few and because the garden had made him feel safe all his life he curled up and fell fast asleep He woke with a jolt The hamper was being lifted Then it was set down hard then lifted again There was clattering of horse’s feet and a rumbling cart and other packages thumping in beside him For miles and miles it went jolt jolt jolt Timmy Willie trembled among the jumbled vegetables He tried to tuck his nose under a leaf and pretend it was only wind in the hedges but the noise and shaking would not stop At last the cart stopped at a house The hamper was carried in and set down Timmy Willie heard a coin clink The cook gave the carrier sixpence The back door banged The cart rumbled away But there was no quiet at all Hundreds of carts seemed to be passing Dogs barked Boys…

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