This award-winning novel by the beloved author is reissued to coincide with the hardcover release of its sequel, Poppy and Rye.

As ruler of Dimwood Forest, Ocax, the hoot owl, has promised to protect the mice occupying an abandoned farmhouse as long as they ask permission before "moving about". Poppy, a timid dormouse, is a loyal, obedient subject -- until she sees Ocax devour her finace. To prove that the intimidating ruler is a phony, Poppy embarks on a dangerous and eye-opening quest, which ends with her one-on-one battle with Ocax.