Once upon a time, a poor woodman and his wife were so desperate for a child that they claimed they would be happy even with one no bigger than their thumb. This is what happened, and the boy they named Tom Thumb was smart and bright but would not grow any bigger no matter what or how much they fed him. Tom Thumb is a very little boy, who although he is just about the size of his father's thumb is very adventurous and his curiosity gets him into some difficult situations. With courage, wit and the help of some animal friends, Tom shows that though he may be a very small boy, he is a great hero.