The Wild Ones

When Kit and his parents, "Big Sky raccoons," are attacked in the woods, Kit flees for his mother's hometown of Ankle Snap Alley and an uncle he's never met. The Wild Ones of Ankle Snap prove to be a motley group of "thieves and crooks and cheats," but they are nothing compared to the Flealess, ruthless indoor pets determined to take back the Alley thanks to a promise made long ago. When Kit realizes his parents were attacked because of a clue from the legendary First Raccoon, Kit, Uncle Rik, and new friend Eeni race to find the Bone of Contention, a hidden contract extending the Wild Ones' stay. London (the Dog Tags series) delivers a classic hero's journey, with adventure and danger waiting behind every tree trunk and garbage can. As Kit contends with dangerous characters like Gayle, a ravenous alligator, he discovers the courage and sensibility necessary to lead the residents of Ankle Snap. The sharp, lively descriptions ("like dynamite in a silk purse") shine while the exhilarating finale illustrates that home is wherever your "howl to snap" friends live. Ages 8%E2%80%9312. Agent: Robert Guinsler, Sterling Lord Literistic. (Aug.)