When Wolf finds a set of footprints in the snow leading from his front door, he decides to follow them, hoping they will lead to a new friend. But, thanks to fairy tales, Wolf has a bad reputation—all of the animals he meets on his journey refuse to talk to him, assuming he only wants to eat them. When he finally finds that it was Duck who made the footprints, all he can do is think about how tasty Duck would be. He pounces—and is awakened by bathwater! It turns out his journey has only been an imaginary one through his house. We see toy versions of all the animals he encountered strewn throughout the rooms as Wolf runs to answer a knock at the door, only to find footprints in the snow, leading away from his front door. This is a perfectly paced picture book with a pleasing narrative pattern, clear and humorous illustrations, and a completely satisfying surprise ending. (Ages 3–6)

Wolf is feeling offended and indignant: All the wolves he's ever read about are nasty, scary, and greedy! To set the record straight he decides to write a story about a nice wolf. But will his wolfish instincts get the better of him after all?

Author/illustrator Mei Matsuoka's simple yet sophisticated art imbues Wolf's story of searching for a friend with wry humor and subtle wit.