In a cozy burrow under the roots of a giant oak tree, lived a little mouse named Pip. Pip was afraid of many things: loud noises, dark shadows, and especially the wide, rushing river that flowed through the forest.
One day, the berry bushes on their side of the river were bare. "We must cross the river," said Papa Mouse. "The sweetest berries grow on the other side." Pip's little heart thumped like a drum. The river looked like a roaring monster to him.
Hiding in the tall grass, Pip watched his family try to cross on a wobbly log. He was too frightened to join them. Suddenly, a wise old owl with feathers like silver moonlight landed on a branch above him. "What troubles you, little one?" hooted the owl, whose name was Noctua.
"I'm too scared to cross the river," squeaked Pip. "Bravery isn't about having no fear," said Noctua gently. "True bravery is being afraid, but doing what you need to do anyway."
Noctua's words echoed in Pip's ears. He looked at the river again. It was still big and scary, but he thought about the sweet berries and his hungry family. A tiny spark of courage began to glow inside him.
Pip had an idea! He found a strong, flat piece of bark. He gathered sturdy twigs for a mast and a big, green leaf for a sail. He was still afraid, but he kept working, his paws moving quickly.
He pushed his little raft into the water. It bobbed and spun, but it didn't sink! "I did it!" he whispered. The spark of courage inside him grew into a warm, steady flame.
He called to his family, who were still hesitating by the wobbly log. "Come on!" he chirped bravely. "I've built us a boat!"
With Pip at the helm, they sailed across the rushing river. The water splashed and the raft rocked, but Pip wasn't as scared anymore. He was the captain of their adventure!
They reached the other side safely and found the biggest, juiciest berries they had ever seen. Pip learned that even the smallest mouse can have the biggest heart, and that a little bit of bravery can help you cross any river, no matter how wide or scary it seems.