This delightfully grim tale is a heartwarming exploration of moving on, perfect for fans of Kate DiCamillo and Tim Burton!
Clare is the undead fox of Deadwood Forest. Here, leaves grow in a perpetual state of fall: not quite dead, but not quite alive—just like Clare. Long ago, he was struck by a car, and, hovering between life and death, he was given the choice to either cross into the Afterlife or become an Usher of wandering souls. Clare chose the latter: a solitary life of guiding souls to their final resting place.
Clare’s quiet and predictable days are met with upheaval when a badger soul named Gingersnipes knocks on his door. Despite Clare’s efforts to usher her into the Afterlife, the badger is unable to leave Deadwood. This is unprecedented. Baffling. A disturbing mystery which threatens the delicate balance between the living and the dead.
Desperate for help, Clare and Gingersnipes set out on a treacherous journey to find Hesterfowl—the visionary grouse who recently foretold of turmoil in Deadwood. But upon their arrival, Hesterfowl divulges a shocking revelation that leaves Clare devastated, outraged, and determined to do anything to change his fate
Topics Death. Future life. Foxes. Badgers. Animals. Forests and forestry. Friendship. Magic.
Trim Size 7 3/4" x 5 1/2"
JLG Span Spring
Language English
Rights type Print
Publication date 2025-02-24
JLG Release Date Jun 2025
Minimum grade 3
Maximum grade 5
Reading level Elementary
Format Print
Fantasy/Science Fiction Elementary Plus (Grades 3-5)
Fantasy/Science Fiction Elementary Plus
Fantasy/Science Fiction Elementary Plus (Grades 3-5)
For Grades 3-5
A collection of fantasy and science fiction titles designed to spark curiosity and imagination in older elementary readers. These fiction stories transport readers to enchanting kingdoms, far-off worlds, and thrilling quests, encouraging exploration, creativity, and a deeper love of reading through immersive storytelling.