School Library Journal
03/01/2023
Gr 3–6—In the previous book, Dilah the fox, Ankel the weasel, and Little Bean the rabbit were left trapped in a cave fearing for their safety. Fortunately, a rescue allows them to continue their hunt for the treasure that would grant the ability to change from animal to human. Guided by a moonstone and a map of the Enchanted Forest, the three meet friend and foe along the way. Each character offers a piece of the puzzle in their quest. Ultimately, it will take a lot of courage and a series of tests to prove they're truly worthy and ready to become humans. VERDICT Written from the perspective of Dilah the fox, this animal fantasy paces well and is perfect for fans of the "Foxcraft" series and Katherine Applegate's Endling the Last.
Kirkus Reviews
2022-09-14
Animal friends face their greatest challenge in this adventure translated from Chinese.
Continuing their journey begun in White Fox: Dilah and the Moon Stone (2020), the events of which are briefly recapped at the beginning, orphaned arctic fox Dilah and his furry companions renew their pursuit of the treasured moonstone belonging to Ulla, the patron saint of arctic foxes. Alsace, Dilah’s treacherous brother, stole the moonstone, which has the power to transform animals into humans. Dilah and his weasel and rabbit companions receive unexpected help from red fox Emily—who surprises them by revealing she took the moonstone back from Alsace. Emily joins them in following the moonstone’s light toward their destination along with Tyrone, a fighting panda bear, and old friend Egg the seal. Throughout the straightforward quest narrative, the group interacts with many animals who question whether the treasure is in fact a blessing or a curse. Dilah’s faith in the goal of being transformed into a human remains steadfast, however, and he argues that despite humans’ destructive reputation, by joining their number he can influence them in favor of kindness toward animals and the Earth. The puzzle-solving action in the second half is particularly compelling. The true nature of the moonstone remains a mystery readers will ponder long after the bittersweet end. Whimsical illustrations with an artful use of light and shadow are interspersed throughout.
An action-packed venture with an ending that will linger in readers’ minds. (Fantasy. 8-12)
