"As it happened, the very next day,
Philippa spotted something very interesting
as she ambled down the street. A tall woman
in a bright-yellow uniform was helping the
schoolchildren cross the road. Philippa had
never seen anything like it!
It gave her a brilliant idea ... "
Philippa and her forest friends live close to a busy village. Philippa loves to cross Old Oak Road every afternoon in a search for the blackberries that grow on the other side. Invariably, her attempts to cross safely are hindered by quickly moving traffic. It causes concern on a daily basis.
Hedgehog suggests that she write a letter to the mayor; there is no response to her concern. A trip to the village offers a surprise sigthting of a woman in a bright uniform who is guiding village children safely across the street to school. What an idea! Philippa sets to work finding her own way to keep her critter friends safe. They are surprised when they see her all decked out in a 'special uniform that stops cars'. She wants to prevent any further road accidents. Astounded at her ingenuity, they accept her help. It isn't long until everyone in the village knows Philippa's story. What a coup!
The mayor is not particularly pleased to have Philippa take all the attention; his accomplishments are rarely touted now. Having listened to a conversation of complaint with his daughter, the family cat, Darling Treasure, decides she will see for herself what the commotion is. Soon, she is hopelessly lost. The family is frantic to find their beloved pet.
In the forest, Philippa hears the cat's cries and offers to help her find her way home. When an approaching car threatens their safety, Philippa bravely steps forward. It's the mayor and his daughter who are thrilled to find their beloved pet, and willing to provide a fitting gift for Philippa's bravery. In fact, her thankful forest friends also have a surprise in store.
Mixed media artwork offers an aura of nostalgia, with its many fine details and village feel. The perspectives are ever-changing, the fall colors and light-infused scenes evoke a warmth between animals and humans sure to impress young listeners.
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