Synopses & Reviews
The island of Mistmantle is inhabited by red squirrels, otters, hedgehogs, and moles and ruled from Mistmantle tower by a hedgehog king. Urchin is an orphan squirrel who was found abandoned soon after birth on one of the island's beaches and was raised by other animals. On leaving school, he is employed at court as a page by the dashing Captain Crispin. Mistmantle has always been a free society, but under the influences of a squirrel Captain called Husk, the King is enforcing harsh new laws and the animals are becoming enslaved. Using the traditional system of drawing tokens to establish a person's guilt, Crispin is accused of a terrible murder and is banished from the island. urchin becomes caught up in the struggle to restore justice and freedom to Mistmantle, to overthrow Husk, and return Crispin to the island.
From the Cassette edition.
Synopsis
On a night of riding stars, a tiny squirrel is found abandoned and close to death on a distant beach. Adopted and raised by a kindly squirrel, Urchin has no idea of his powerful destiny or of the way he will influence the island of Mistmantle.
The rule of the good King Brushen and Queen Spindle is threatened by an evil plot from within the court. When their young son is found murdered, the isle is thrown into turmoil. Behind the scenes, the wicked Lord Husk and Lady Aspen are determined to take control. But to underestimate the power of the islanders and the ancient prophecies is a big mistake….
Triumphant heroes and brilliantly wicked villains do battle in this heart-stopping adventure in the great tradition of Watership Down and The Wind in the Willows.
About the Author
M. I. McALLISTER grew up on Tyneside and now lives in Yorkshire, England. She is married to a Methodist minister and has three nearly grown-up children. She has written several novels including
The Secret of Mice and
The Octave of Angels.From the Cassette edition.