A delightfully grim tale about an undead fox whose lonely existence is turned upside down when he learns his job as usher of souls is in jeopardy, perfect for fans of Kate DiCamillo and Tim Burton.
Clare is the undead fox of Deadwood Forest. Hovering between life and death, he was given the choice to either cross into the Afterlife or become an Usher of wandering souls. And while he loves guiding animal souls into each of the four realms, Clare is lonely. But Clare’s lonely undead existence is met with upheaval when a badger soul named Gingersnipes knocks on his door. Clare seeks the help of Hesterfowl-the visionary grouse who recently foretold of turmoil in Deadwood. But Hesterfowl has a shocking revelation: Clare is dying-this time really dying. Clare is devastated; outraged; and decides he will do anything to change his fate …
Format: Paperback
Pages: 320
Imprint: Walker Books Australia
Publication date: 01/05/2025
The Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest
By Aubrey Hartman
Review by Alex A
Clare is an immortal fox, tasked with ushering lost souls along their final journey to the afterlife. He lives in a forest, tends to his mushroom garden, and avoids the village children who call him a monster. When a chatty Badger shows up on his doorstep and won’t be guided onward, Clare is forced to face his own past, and learn that we are worthy of love despite - or because of - our imperfections. This cozy, moving tale of self-acceptance was totally charming. I loved the main character Clare and his all-too-relatable self-doubts.
Perfect for readers of Runt and The Wild Robot.
