First published 2024
Tyrone squeaks his scales in the basement of the Metropolitan Opera House, dreaming of the spotlight above. This small mouse possesses an extraordinary tenor voice that soars through arias with surprising power. He practices in secret, mimicking the human performers he watches from the shadows of the grand theater. When auditions open for a new production, Tyrone faces an impossible choice between safety and ambition. The opera world seems built for creatures far larger than himself, yet his passion burns too bright to ignore. Other mice warn him about the dangers of the stage, the cats that prowl the corridors, and the humans who set traps. Tyrone must navigate jealous rivals, skeptical directors, and his own fears about whether a mouse can truly belong in the world of grand opera. His journey tests not only his vocal abilities but his courage to claim his place among the greatest singers. This tale explores what happens when talent meets determination in the most unlikely of dreamers.
Genres: animals, coming-of-age, fantasy, music, classical-music, anthropomorphic
Vibes: emotional, intimate, whimsical
Tropes: determined-underdog, found-family, unlikely-hero
Setting: Metropolitan Opera House
60 pages · Paperback · Vellie Tales