Every once in awhile, one comes across a book that seems, well, almost perfect. This is such a book. 
 It had everything that I love. It had good characters, a wonderfully imaginative plot, a vivid setting, and beautiful flow and words! It was brilliant! Though, I suppose one wouldn't accept any less from a lead singer/songwriter (The Decemberists.) 
 Anyway, this book was probably the best I've read this month. And I needed it. For the past few weeks, I've been having a rough time with the book I've picked up randomly at the library. They just weren't that good, not bad, but certainly not things I would re-read or recommend. But not this one. This one I would recommend. 
 I think, when I look back on this book, it strikes me as having a Narnia feel to it. The talking animals, the forest, and just the vibe I got. It was all very nostalgic and I felt very content while curled up in bed with this book. This is one book, that when my nieces/nephews (Ricki, you know who I mean) are older, I will want to read to them while wrapped in a soft blanket. It strikes me as the perfect book to read out loud to some book-loving chilluns.