It is the summer solstice, the longest day of the year for the animals waiting for their chance to cross “The Black” and enter the beginnings of the Great Forest. It is a rite of passage for the young residents of the Fertile Fields. However, lurking on the side of the asphalt border is a clan of ruthless coyotes, bent on destroying the hopes and dreams of the young animals making their first, and possibly only, Crossing.
Enter Rascal Northbranch, a seemingly normal bunny rabbit, who is tasked with protecting the animals of the Great Forest from the evil coyotes and saving the entire kingdom for future generations. His Grandfather, Bramble Thunderfoot, along with the wise but elderly Grandmother Oak, selected Rascal for this most treacherous, and daring adventure. Rascal’s battle skills, the wisdom he garnered from his grandfather, and his kind, giving heart, make him the perfect choice for this mission. Join Rascal as he meets Prince Silver Moon, Morning Mist, and the bunny, Willow Pine, to whom Rascal loses his heart. You will also meet Bay-Lore and an entire host of grizzled, angry coyotes.
However, you should be warned. You need to be on the lookout for the unexpected hero in this novel. He is all fur, ears, and feet, and goes by the name of Sweetums. He is quite the scene-stealer, and he will undoubtedly capture your heart. So, come join the members of the Great Forest as they battle to save themselves and each other from the forces of evil. Who knows, “The Crossing” could turn out to be just the adventure you’ve been waiting for. –David C. James
