Tom, Dot and Talking Mouse and Other Bedtime Stories

Tom Lecky is a well‑liked miller in a quiet village, known for his bright eyes and generous spirit. When his hopes of marrying Anne Grey fall apart, he retreats to his flour‑filled mill, sealing himself away and letting bitterness replace his former cheer. In the dim evenings, a tiny, flour‑dust‑spattered mouse scurries out of a hidden crack, waiting for the crumbs Tom drops, and their silent encounters begin to stir a curiosity that the miller has long forgotten.

The mouse’s sudden ability to speak turns the grim routine into a gentle, unexpected dialogue, offering Tom a chance to see kindness in the smallest of creatures. As their conversations unfold, the story invites listeners to reflect on the power of compassion and the simple comforts that can mend a wounded heart. The collection continues with several other short, soothing tales, each crafted to ease listeners into a calm, thoughtful night.