The Mouse Who Became King: The Gatehouse Mystery

By Beth Shortsleeve

A mysterious thief is on the loose in the royal courtyard

While on his nightly patrol, King Arthur meets Baron von Douglas, a magnificent copper warhorse who has appointed himself Guardian of the Outer Gate. The Baron is in a royal uproar: strange items have vanished across the castle grounds-a block of oak timber, a patch of leather, a brass thimble, and an iron support nail Worse yet, removing the nail caused the garden bench to flip, tumbling the Baroness right into the rosebushes

Determined to crack the case, King Arthur follows a trail of wood shavings, red fur, and acorn shells to the base of an ancient oak tree. But instead of a dangerous bandit, Arthur discovers Sir Vincent von Thoroughgood-a devoted father squirrel who simply gathered building supplies to craft a cozy, miniature cabin for his family.

With wisdom, fairness, and a generous heart, King Arthur negotiates a wonderful solution that repairs the damage and welcomes new friends to the kingdom.

The Mouse Who Became King: The Gatehouse Mystery is an enchanting, beautifully illustrated adventure that teaches young readers about problem-solving, restorative justice, and the power of empathy.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0HFR4RYCF
• ISBN13: 9798240805042
• Release Date: August 2026
• Publisher: Beth Shortsleeve Publishing
• Length: 32 Pages
• Weight: 0.89 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 8.5" x 11.0"
• Age Range: 3 to 8 years
• Grade Range: Preschool to Grade 3