By Mousella MacMouser

New Mouse City—Geronimo Stilton is not the type to make a big deal out of his birthday. In fact, his idea of the perfect birthday is a nice, quiet, simple celebration with his family. But ever since he hired Pinky Pick, nothing in his life is quiet or simple.

“My motto is ‘the bigger, the better!’” said Pinky. “And my boss definitely deserves the best birthday party ever!”

When it comes to throwing a party, Pinky knows how to really do it up. “There must have been over a hundred mice there,” said one partygoer. “Plus, a ten-layer cake, imported cheese, expensive flowers, a thousand balloons, and even fireworks!”

But the best part of the night was saved for last when Geronimo’s sister Thea announced that the great poet Walt Whitmouse was going to read a poem in Geronimo’s honor. “He charged a lot of money to write it,” said Thea, “but it was worth every penny.”

When asked what he thought of the big celebration, Geronimo’s furry face turned bright red. “Who is paying for all of this?” he asked, nervously. Later, when Thea heard about Geronimo’s question, she burst out laughing. “Why, he doesn’t know it yet, but Gerry Berry is paying, of course!” Wait until Geronimo finds out!

© EDIZIONI PIEMME – ITALY