Poppy is a deer mouse who lives with her family in Dimwood Forest, where the great horned owl, Mr. Ocax, claims to protect the mice from a porcupine, a danger he says is lurking nearby. When her fiancé Ragweed is killed by the owl while trying to explore beyond the safe zone, Poppy realizes she has been deceived. She sets out to confront the owl and meets Ereth, a grumpy porcupine who turns out to be an ally.
Avi's novel, with its short chapters, is a good read for middle-grade children who like animal adventures and want a story about courage and questioning authority. It also works as a read-aloud for families.
Clear-cut; an easy read.
Best for readers like The Curious Generalist. Which reader are you?
- Published
- 1995
- Language
- EN
