Mae and the Wampus Cat

Mae lives on the edge of a mountain hollow where the trees whisper and the creek tells secrets. Grandma's rule is simple: The woods are friendly in the daytime, sugar. After sundown? That's critter time. But when Mae's favorite whistle slips into the brush, she follows her wits-and a glimmer of light-straight to a pair of glowing eyes.

Out steps the Wampus Cat, whiskers twitching, tail swishing, and a voice like thunder rolling down the ridge. If Mae wants to pass, she'll have to keep her cool, solve three riddles, and show that the smartest tool isn't teeth or claws-it's a plan.

Told with a cozy, campfire feel and a gentle refrain-Keep close, keep clever-mind the woods and mind the weather.-this picture-book folktale brings Appalachian mountain magic to life. It's just spooky enough for giggles and gasps, and perfect for young readers who love brave kids, clever solutions, and mysterious creatures who might be guardians after all.

Perfect for: ages 6-8 (read-aloud 4-8), classroom folklore units, bedtime with a little shiver, autumn/Halloween storytimes, and any child who likes to shout out answers to riddles.