Palmer Patch — Barbara Brooks Wallace

What's a skunk to do when he finds himself encased in a cardboard box, surrounded by possible enemies, and with his weapon taken from him? Luckily he is simply surrounded by the friendly Patch family animals—a cat, two dogs, a goat, and a duck.But Palmer thinks they're all just foolish backyard pets whose blind trust in humans is sure to be betrayed. When the animals hear they are to be farmed out and separated, Palmer learns the meaning of true friendship. For children who love animal stories, this has a sure appeal. Dialogue is brisk and funny. (Center for Children's Books) Author Bio: Barbara Brooks Wallace is the author of many books for children. She is noted particularly for her Victorian mysteries, or gothics, often described by reviewers as Dickensian. Both her Twin in the Tavern and Sparrows in the Scullery have won Mystery Writers of America Edgar Awards. Peppermints in the Parlor was a winner of the William Allan White Award.