The Mouse and The Motorcycle

Ralph S. Mouse #1: The Mouse and the Motorcycle

Literary awards : Nene Award (1969), Pacific Northwest Library Association Young Reader's Choice Award (1968), Iowa Children's Choice Award, William Allen White Children's Book Award (1968)

Meet Ralph, a curious and adventurous mouse with a dream bigger than his knothole home — riding a motorcycle! Living secretly in a hotel room, Ralph spends his days watching human guests come and go, dreaming of adventure beyond the second floor. Everything changes when a young boy named Keith arrives with a toy motorcycle.

With a few magical sounds — “pb-pb-b-b-b” — Ralph discovers he can bring the motorcycle to life. What begins as an innocent ride quickly turns into a series of thrilling misadventures that test Ralph’s courage, cleverness, and sense of responsibility. Thankfully, Keith understands Ralph’s longing for freedom and becomes an unexpected friend and ally.

Written by beloved author Beverly Cleary, this timeless children’s classic is filled with humour, heart, and unforgettable moments. The Mouse and the Motorcycle is a charming tale about friendship, curiosity, and daring to chase your dreams — no matter how small you are.

Perfect for early readers, family read-alouds, and fans of animal adventure stories.

Keywords: The Mouse and the Motorcycle book, Ralph S Mouse series, Beverly Cleary children’s books, classic kids novels, animal adventure stories, early chapter books, friendship stories for children, illustrated kids fiction