This gem of a story is about achieving, even if you are very, very small.
Wolf is the smallest and least strong of
the mice cubs, and is looked
down on by the others. He stays at home with his mum, when all the
other mice cubs leave the nest.
He is named Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, after the composer, for his
mother had seen the name on some sheet music and liked it. The full
name when written down must surely be bigger than Wolf is himself.
Perhaps it was that name that gave him his unusual talent, for in the
house where they live, a Mrs Honeybee plays the piano, and Wolf
discovers that he can sing the music she plays. Mrs Honeybee
recognises an extraordinary musical
master when she find him, even if
he is a small mouse, and she wants to be friends with both mice.
Wolf and his mum are nervous of Mrs Honeybee, especially as she has a
cat, but she keeps the cat away and earns Wolf’s trust by leaving
chocolate nibbles for both mice. An understanding develops from their
love of music, and Mrs Honeybee accompanies Wolf’s
singing.
Mrs Honeybee is injured, and Wolf sings out – to the tune to “Help” –
what else? A policeman is alerted to the situation and Mrs Honeybee is
taken to hospital.
Whilst she is gone, Wolf composes an oratorio to sing to her. On her
return she is amazed and delighted: this time she learns from him, and
plays the music he has composed, accompanying his singing and
delighting them all.
Dick King Smith is a master of animal tales, combining the attributes of
his animals, with a wonderful humour. Any small child in the big world
will be able to relate to the shyness of the mouse, and adore that most
brilliant of teachers Mrs Honeybee who draws out such musical skill
from her tiny pupil.