This is the story of Ahmek, a young beaver, going about the business of living in his natural habitat. Through his eyes, we see a man, an artist painting in the wilderness. Slowly, cautiously, Ahmek and the man establish a rapport, only to have it shattered when poachers destroy the beaver dam and threaten Ahmek’s life. In a desperate escape, Ahmek sets out alone on his life’s great adventure. He meets a charming cast of characters, his true love, and he does find happiness. But there is always the feeling that someday he should return. When he does, he becomes part of a significant mystery that to this day has never been solved. Beautifully written and fully researched, AHMEK is a nature tale with a twist of humour and history. The year is 1917 and the artist, though unknown to Ahmek, is known to the world as Tom Thomson.

Originally published: North York, Ont. : Stoddart Kids, c1999.