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------- ------- SYNOPSIS OF MARSHFIELD MANOR ----- ----- John, the youngest in a family of highly civilized Cape Cod water rats, survives a blizzard and feels a kinship with adventurous humans and a dog. Later, John takes a morning off from study to explore his surroundings and is seen by a curious boy. The rat and the boy meet again, on the Cape and in the nearby city, and eventually work together to save Marshfield Manor, a mysterious Colonial estate of historical and environmental importance. ----- John and his young companions go on a camping trip, escape from a snapping turtle, save a harbor from fire, and become trapped in the middle of an outdoor wedding. Partly because of his encounters with the boy, John and his brilliant and adventurous friend James decide to spend the summer in the city. Here, with John's resourceful cousins Hope and Larissa, they visit an art museum, rescue an old raccoon from the zoo, do historical research in the city library, and work together to solve the 200 year old mystery of Marshfield Manor in time to save it from demolition. ----- The rats are kind, curious, and energetic creatures, but they must overcome a long tradition of rodent caution to become so dangerously involved in human affairs. Throughout the story, thoughtful analysis alternates with humor and fast-paced action. Kindness, honesty, books and scholarship, hard work, and respect for the natural world are valued. |