The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin By Beatrix Potter (Read Aloud)

In this whimsical story, a group of squirrels led by Squirrel Nutkin travel to Owl Island to gather nuts. As part of a polite tradition, the squirrels bring gifts to Old Brown, the island’s resident owl, in exchange for permission to collect nuts. Unlike his companions, the irreverent Squirrel Nutkin refuses to show respect. Instead, he dances around Old Brown and teases him with riddles. Each day, the other squirrels present their gifts, while Nutkin’s taunting continues—until Old Brown finally loses patience. Seizing Nutkin, the owl manages to bite off part of his tail before Nutkin barely escapes.

This tale highlights the value of courtesy and respect—and the consequences of reckless mischief.

Episode Two from The Little Library of Beatrix Potter

The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin by Beatrix Potter is public domain.

Once Upon a Storytime Podcast is owned and operated by Julie Boston.

The song used in this episode is “Happy Go Lucky” by Victor Lundberg with permission from Epidemic Sound.

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This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit onceuponastorytimepodcast.com