In the Cities of Coin and Spice (The Orphan's Tales, #2)

by Catherynne M. Valente

The mouse looked doubtful. “I have heard that in the world outside, it is easy to become Stepped Upon, or Swatted with a Broom. We wish to be bright! We wish to be bright and great, so that no one may Step Upon us, or do anything to us with Brooms!”