Like most grandmothers, I loved to tell bedtime stories to my six-year-old granddaughter, Catherine. This is how the tale of Licky the Singing Mouse began. Then, one day, I thought it might be worth writing down. And so the story grew. Eventually, Catherine wanted to help. Sometimes she would suggest names for the characters; sometimes, sitting beside me on the sofa or propped up in bed, she would spell out words on the keyboard. This is what a child would say, Grandma, she would advise, or I don’t like that name for the king. Let’s call him Rumurus.
If this ever gets printed, I told her, your name should be on the book. I have kept my promise. This is why we both present to you the story of Licky the Singing Mouse. Enjoy!-Trudy Harvey Tait.