Behind the Walls with Chester Midshipmouse

By Susan Weisberg

My Dad always spoke about the mice at Bancroft. They have been long time residents of the hallowed halls of the world’s largest dormitory where 4,400 Midshipmen live at the U.S. Naval Academy.

I remember my second Mid telling me that during her candidate visit weekend, she saw mice scurrying about in the room of her Plebe hosts. I asked her about it and she said that she should get used to them if she was going to live in Bancroft Hall one day. The fact that we had three pet mice may have helped too!

In my book, A USNA Mom’s Journal, I mention that in my Dad’s day there were many traditions between Mids and mice, mostly unfortunate for the mice. Then we learned about Susan Weisberg’s book. Chester Midshipmouse, and I have never looked at mice or Bancroft in the same way. This incredibly imaginative story brings together two worlds: the Midshipmen at the U.S. Naval Academy and the mice that inhabit Bancroft Hall in a tale of Honor, Courage, and Commitment for all ages!

I had the opportunity to speak with Susan about how her story telling journey began, how she created the wonderful characters that come to life in her book, who Chester is based on, who named the famous Navy mouse, and much more! And she gives us insight but no spoilers for Book 2.

You can listen to my latest podcast episode with Susan Weisberg, “Behind the Walls with Chester Midshipmouse”, and then read the books, available at the Midstore.

USNA MidMoms and More Podcast

• Commissioning Debrief with 2022 MidMoms – PART 2 | Episode30
• Commissioning Debrief with 2022 MidMoms – PART 1 | Episode 29
• Hindsight is 20-20 – What We Wish We Knew – PART 2 | Epsiode 28
• 20-20 Hindsight – What We Wish We Knew PART 1 | Episode 27
• How Time Flies: A Look at 2/C and Firstie Years Part 2 | Episode 26

Available on Podbean and also available on Apple and Spotify.

I hope you enjoy this latest episode and please send any questions my way. I am here to help. GO NAVY!!