First published 1987
Doctor De Soto runs a dental practice with his wife, treating animals of all sizes from their cozy office. The mouse dentist has built a successful business helping creatures in pain, but he posts a clear policy: no cats, and absolutely no foxes. When a fox arrives at his door howling with a terrible toothache, De Soto faces a moral dilemma. His professional oath compels him to help any animal in distress, yet foxes are natural predators who view mice as dinner rather than doctors. De Soto decides to treat the fox, but he and his wife must stay alert. The fox's gratitude seems genuine at first, but soon his true nature emerges as he plots to eat the helpful mouse couple. De Soto realizes he needs a clever plan to outwit his dangerous patient. This story explores how kindness and intelligence can triumph over size and strength.
Genres: fiction, animals, medical
Vibes: emotional, thought-provoking, whimsical
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, triumph-of-the-underdog
32 pages · Paperback · Scholastic