The Midnight Post and the Postbox Clock

by Sarah Dean

Legend has it, there once was a world where emptiness reigned, until a magical post office appeared unexplained. In the golden days of Frederick the Fox's youth, Frederick would embark on enchanting summer vacations to visit his clever and charming Uncle Fenwick. However, as years slip by, Frederick's once hopeful spirit has become deflated by a job in the bustling city. Yet, everything changes when a mysterious package falls onto his desk, whisking him back to Burrowood, the forgotten town of his cherished childhood memories, to run his uncle's bookstore, The Lost Chapter. But nothing is as Frederick expects. Submerged in vines, his uncle's once vibrant bookstore is now in ruins. To his surprise, some of the rambunctious animal residents are eager to form genuine friendships. And most mysterious of all, a magical post office he once believed as a myth has just sent him a letter. What in the wood?

Genres: Fantasy

208 pages, Paperback

First published October 17, 2023

Reviews

[Gracie Malcomb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a genuine and sweet story, and one that I will keep for years! I got to meet Sarah in December 2023, and so thankful to have gotten her book. I would love to see this as a movie one day!

[Dixey Teel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am in love with each of these animal characters! Also, I want to live in Burrowood with them. More than that, the message of hope is apparent in every storyline. What a well-written and uplifting book!

Also, I would like a wooden mug filled with a hot mushroom latte. “What in the wood?” smile

[Jamie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love how books find us, rather than the other way around! This little gem was sitting on a middle grade, reads table at a bookstore in Thomasville, Georgia, highlighting local, southern authors, such as Sarah, Dean , who lives in South Carolina. I saw that, was intrigued by the adorable cover, read the jacket copy, and the book immediately went into my tote bag to come home with me!
This is pure, imaginative fun! It is part mystery, part, fantastical, tale, part found family saga, and is wholly entertaining and delightful.
Frederick the fox spent all of his childhood summers with his uncle in his hometown of Burrowood, living in his bookstore, The Lost Chapter. He especially loved the nights when his uncle Fenwick would tell stories about the mysterious Midnight Post before bed. He grows up, never daring to believe that it could actually be real! Now, as an adult, and working as a book curator, Frederick is compelled to return to Burrowood to revive the dilapidated bookstore following his uncle’s passing. But, what awaits him there is adventure and mystery, and most of all, friendship. He certainly does not find himself alone in restoring the bookstore or on the hunt for the Midnight Post.
I absolutely adored all the additional characters that make up this enchanted town. However, as an adult reader, I can identify a few plot holes, or topics that felt somewhat unexplored, or moments where we jumped in time with very little warning. But, the story was so cute, warm, and comforting that I’m able to see past most of that. I will be anxious to see what the author does next as I feel this book is setting up for a much longer series. This one felt like the first of many. I will want to return to Burrowood and learn more about the adventures of Frederick and his friends!
Actual rating, 3.75 stars rounded up

[Vanessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This looks and sounds fantastic.

[Rebekah Cobb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredibly charming and beautiful illustrations! The author has created a magical world with magical characters. I cannot wait for the next book! This is a must read!

[holly rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just spent a weekend in Tokyo with the author’s friend from college. We were talking about books and art as we usually do. Getting up and walking to her book collection, she remarked, “I have a book I think you’d like.”She procured and handed me her hardcover illustrated copy she received as a gift from Sarah. I opened the cover and I instantly knew my friend was right. As an artist, the illustrations captured my attention. The cute little forest animals in their charming little village in the woods, drawn in a whimsical, playful style had me transfixed immediately. It reminded me of Fantastic Mr. Fox or Winnie the Pooh. I stayed up late at night after my friend went to bed and got up before her to finish it during my trip. It was an easy read filled with delightful illustrations on every page. It’s extraordinary how much illustrations lend to bringing a story to life. I was expecting a very simple plot but there ended up being quite a bit more lore and intrigue than I anticipated! It was really exciting to read! I’m also realizing I’m a huge fan of generational stories, and the way this one developed not only the current generation but also the previous generation made for a more layered, deep, and fascinating world and characters. I am absolutely obsessed with Cherri and every single outfit she wears- I aspire to have her sense of fashion. I’m so thrilled for future installments! The Midnight Post and Burrowood are indeed magical. Sarah has delivered that magic to us on the pages of her book through the stunning illustrations and enchanting narrative. I want to share this story with everyone!!

[Allison · Rating 4 out of 5]

Charming story about delightful animal characters in an idyllic wood, seeking out the mysteries of a magical legend. Dean has a gift for storytelling and her original plot was like a breath of fresh air. There is a delightful juxtaposition of the old and the modern (tweed pants, wooden spectacles, and cold brew coffee) as well as gorgeous descriptions of the town in which they live (may I please purchase a one-way ticket to Burrowood?).

Topping it all off are gorgeous illustrations provided by the author; I met her at a craft fair and purchased some beautiful and colorful notecards but the book I bought was only in black and white. I’m kicking myself for not splurging for the full-color edition!

One star knocked for some minor plot inconsistencies that are to be expected for a debut novel. What I did not expect was truly gorgeous prose and heartfelt scenes throughout; Dean has the makings of a very gifted author and I’m excited to follow her as she hones her craft. Highly recommend!!

[Shellie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked up this book at a book festival. It was the whimsy of the booth that initially intrigued me, but the author's pure excitement was what made me purchase it. I am so glad that I did!

The book is geared for younger readers; however, it was a nice change of pace for me! I truly enjoyed reading it. It brought magic, wonder, and warmth. It was a nice change of pace and such a quick read. Plus, it's so easy to get attached to each of the little animal characters. I kept wanting to read more about them.

I am looking forward to more stories about The Midnight Post!

Thank you, Sarah Dean, for sharing your story with us.

[Jenn Bledsoe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I met this author (such a lovely, friendly lady) and we discussed the target audience age group. I bought the paperback “for the grandkids”. However, I (51 yof), absolutely loved and devoured this book. Full of engaging animal characters who are so well developed you can see and hear them even without the illustrations. They interact together in the most realistic and positive manner. They deal with emotions, both positive and negative, in believable ways. The mystery and adventure are well written and I can’t wait to actually read it to and share it with my grandkids. Also anxiously awaiting the second book! Ms. Dean, I thank you for this read, your work, and the happiness it brought me.

[Erin Greek · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this story, the artwork, and the woodland characters! I got this book at a Christmas market in downtown Greenville, SC, where I was able to meet the author and get my book signed! The artwork is top-notch, so I’m glad that I splurged on the color version of this book. I can’t wait for the next book, because I really didn’t want this one to end. Magical, cozy, and so sweet! Side note: Cherri is such a fun and whimsical character! Love her!

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the magic and the light I needed in my life this week! Enjoyed meeting Sarah at her beautiful booth at Indie Craft Parade last weekend. I want to be where these critters are! As a person who gets confused with too many characters, I really appreciated that the animals' names started with the same letter as what they were! If Reese is mentioned, I'm reminded she's a rabbit! Cherri's the chipmunk, etc! I look forward to book #2!

[Micah Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s just a delightful, whimsical book. I’m sure much will be said about the beautiful illustrations (and just go ahead and buy the full-color artists edition, if you don’t you’ll wish you had) but I also think it’s vital to note that the writing is lush and rich enough to stand on its own. Very excited to share this book with my kids and to read more from Mrs. Dean.

[Patricia Bailey · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was gifted to me by my sweet sister & along with a good cup of "Fallen Leaves" tea was the perfect way to spend a lazy fall sunday afternoon.
I gave it 4 stars because there were a few flaws along the way but minor enough to not be obnoxious. I kind of hate when a book is an obvious set-up for a series, but in this case..I need to know the rest of the story. 🙂

[Shelby Loren · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a cute little woodland story where a jaded fox starts anew in the magical town of Burrowood, makes new friends, and solves a long forgotten mystery with them. It's cute and cozy and perfect for the autumn season! I had the privilege of hosting this author's signing at the local bookstore I work at, and she is super sweet and fun! She also illustrated this book, and it's gorgeous!

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was simply adorable! My 13 year old daughter and I read it together and loved it. It was so beautifully written, each chapter was so captivating you didn’t want it to end. The imagery was wonderful and painted the most beautiful pictures in your mind. The characters were fun and vibrant, each of them had their own personality that truly shinned.

[Clair Poletti · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely charming and sweet, full of stunning illustrations and the magic of childhood. Had the chance to meet the author, I truly hope this is the beginning of a wonderful serious. You’ll fall in love with these characters and get to see them illustrated in gorgeous detail.

[Claire · Rating 4 out of 5]

All the characters are animals, about a guy who spent summers in a small, unkept town and in his little mid-life crisis decides to go back to take over his late uncle's book store, makes friends along the way and they search for the secret midnight post together.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very cute story with wonderful illustrations. A group of friendly critters uncover the legend of the midnight post. I stumbled upon this book at a small book store in NC, which I believe the author is also from NC as well.

[Bonnie Blondo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love how cozy the town of burrow wood seems. I would love to live above the Lost Chapter and have my daily coffee with Cherri. I cannot wait for book2 and follow the adventures of The Midnight Post

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

A delightful book to read! I enjoyed meeting the author at a Christmas market in Greenville, SC. She is quite kind, and talented as an author and illustrator. Definitely purchase the illustrated color edition. I look forward to the next one!

[Laura Silvey · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very sweet and whimsical book but definitely geared towards children. Would be a great book for a kid starting out with chapter books.

[April White · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful book! A perfect cozy read😊

[savanna Blake · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aw such a cute and cozy story. This was an easy and refreshing read between my other books!

[Jessa Kindel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a sweet fun read! Obviously meant for young readers and such a great early chapter book. Whimsical and fun to follow along with the adorable characters and illustrations!

[Jenny Strange · Rating 5 out of 5]

Someone turn this into a cosy switch game ASAP.
I want to play in this world every day🥹