Squirrels of Speedwell Farms
by
Book Cover & Preview Text
Chister tucked the note from Wize Mel under his arm, and as the three ran through the woods he felt the onion skin rubbing against his fur. He wondered what it might say—wondered if it gave a clue to his father’s where-abouts. Without realizing it, he slowed as the other two bounded ahead; slowed until he came to a full stop. There in a patch of sunlight, he drew the note out, aware that he was probably not supposed to read a letter written to someone else. He would have called after his friends, but they were too far ahead, and so he unfolded the note addressed to his mother. It read: Dear Eugenia, I have indeed heard from Chap. However, his note was brought to my door by the messenger bat on a rainy night, and the blueberry pigment he used was hopelessly smudged. However, I share with you what little I was able to read: M######ne########a## ####behind the disappearances### work I am d#ing #### I do not stay### ###unwanted attention##### maintain silence####### Ch## ###ry I am sorry I cannot make more of it than that, but I will do my best to make him aware of your worries. Deeply grateful for the casserole, I remain your most insatiable epicurean devotee, W.M.
Formats
Book Details
About the Book
Chister Chary and his friends know the history of their clan--how the beautiful chestnut forest where their ancestors lived for so long, suffered a devastating blight forcing the squirrels into a perilous journey. Eventually, their forced migration brought them to a land of farms surrounded by forests. But as nothing ever stays the same for long, this new home gradually turned into the busy suburb of Speedwell Farms. Squirrels can adapt to almost anything, but lately they have started to disappear, and when Chister turns to Wize Mel, the clan whistle pig, for help and advice, the old groundhog suggests it may be time to emigrate once again—words no one wants to hear! Worse yet, Chister learns his own father may have conspired with whomever or whatever is behind this mystery. Chister tries to hang on to his belief that the rumors are untrue, but the ugly reality is almost more than he can bear. Before long, he finds himself alone and on his own, and sets out on a mission to rescue others—before it’s too late! The Squirrels of Speedwell Farms makes me feel like a kid again … As someone who’s studied and written about squirrels, I enjoyed this heartwarming tale of squirrel friendship, courage, and enduring spirit. —Bill Adler, author, Outwitting Squirrels
About the Author
Liza recalls family drives to the mountains to escape the summer heat. Her father was quick to point out wildlife along the way, but Liza wasn’t always quick enough to see it. However, when they arrived at the picnic grounds, the squirrels were there to greet her. To show her gratitude, she promised them she would one day tell their story.