The Town Mouse and the Country Mouse

Quick Answer

Why This Story Works for Bedtime

It ends with the soothing choice of quiet safety—perfect for bedtime values: comfort, peace, and knowing what ‘enough’ feels like.

Story Synopsis

A Town Mouse visits her cousin in the country and is welcomed with kindness. The Country Mouse sets out a plain lunch—wheat stalks, roots, and acorns with cold water. The Town Mouse tries to nibble politely, but she misses the city’s rich tables. So she invites her cousin to town. The Country Mouse packs a tiny carpet bag and they sneak into a grand house where crumbs and pastries wait on a table. At first the Country Mouse is amazed. Then danger arrives in bursts: a cat, servants, and a dog. Each time, the mice must hide fast. The Country Mouse’s heart grows tired of the noise and fear. She decides that simple food with quiet safety is better than a feast that never lets you relax, and she returns home in peace.

Story Excerpt

A Town Mouse went to visit her cousin who lived far out in the country. The Country Mouse was glad to see her. “Welcome!” she said, and she hurried to make lunch. On a little flat stone she set out wheat stalks, roots, and acorns. For a drink, she brought a dash of cold water. The Town Mouse looked at the simple meal. She nibbled a tiny bit here and a tiny bit there. She tried to be polite, but her nose and her face made it plain: she was not used to such plain food. When lunch was done, the two mice sat close together and talked. Or, really, the Town Mouse did most of the talking. She told about the city. She told about big houses, warm rooms, and tables with all sorts of treats. She told about sweet things and soft cheeses and crusty pastries. The Country Mouse listened with wide, wondering eyes. That night, they curled up in a cozy nest in the hedgerow.

In One Glance