Welcome to the Hill, home to Twig the chipmunk and his furry friends. Trouble always seems to find Twig and today is no different than any other day. Failing in metal class, Twig is ordered to leave the classroom. Embarrassed and tired of being laughed at, the little chipmunk ponders his future. Unlike his BFF Lily, it's unlikely that Twig will be named a Master Metal Crafter. Twig isn't good at anything and he isn't sure what he wants to do. His favorite past time is reading and he spends most of his time with his beloved books, dreaming of adventure beyond the Hill. But, after stumbling across a magnificent egg in the forest, Twig's luck is about to change. Suddenly on top, Twig must decide who to trust and finds a friend in an unlikely creature. 

A story of magic and friendship, reader's of all ages will fall in love with all the creatures that inhabit the Hill. Middle school children will easily identify with Twig's classroom antics and his daily struggles with teachers and classmates. An imaginative tale filled with wonderful characters and beautiful illustrations. The story was open ended, leaving me to believe that Cole intends to visit this magical forest dwelling once again. If so, I'd gladly welcome Twig back. 

Henry Cole has illustrated many children's books, including his very own Jack's Garden, A Nest for Celeste, and On Meadowview Street. Visit Henry online at www.henrycole.net. 

* * I received an ARC courtesy of a Goodreads giveaway sponsored by Henry Cole.