Poppy, full of hope and determination, literally transforms from a cowardly follower into a confident leader right before a reader's eyes. Her story is so real and so powerful that readers won't be able to put it down until they know she is safe. Well-paced with plenty of plot twists, readers are able to think deeply and ask important questions. Adults will appreciate the opportunity to practically introduce the idea of choosing carefully whom you believe, and how to know when the time to take action has come. With timeless characters and an important message, this story is destined to be read for decades to come. Poppy, a timid dormouse, is a loyal, obedient subject of Ocax, the hoot owl who rules Dimwood Forest--until she sees Ocax devour her fiance. To prove that the intimidating ruler who promised to protect mice is a phony, Poppy embarks on a dangerous and eye-opening quest, which ends with her one-on-one battle with Ocax. Winner of the "Horn Book" Award.