M.I. McAllister

Back in print from Purple House Press. 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, eccentric 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 prince 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. Glorious new illustrations by Christine Enright capture the spirit of Urchin, and the world of Mistmantle.

King Crispin and Queen Cedar have just had a baby daughter--Princess Catkin--and everyone on Mistmantle Island gathers for the joyful celebration of the Naming Ceremony. But the day after, the princess suddenly disappears. Urchin and all the brave captains are dispatched to bring back the princess, but come back empty-handed. All clues point to Linty, an older squirrel who had gone mad with grief when two of her children had been culled during evil Husk's reign. The islanders fall further into crisis as a mysterious illness takes hold and begins to spread. There are whispers that perhaps Husk is still alive and seeking his vengeance. In this newest entry in the epic Mistmantle Chronicles, the islanders will have to overcome their greatest fears to save Catkin and bring stability back to their beloved island.

Urchin and the other inhabitants of Mistmantle look forward to a time of peace with the coronation of Crispin the squirrel, but the arrival of a storm-ravaged ship with a delegation from the island of Whitewings not only delays the ceremony but sends Urchin on a perilous journey that changes his life forever.