Niels Mogens Bodecker, a children's author and artist who was born in Denmark, but spent most of his adult life in the United States, is probably best known as the illustrator of Edward Eager's many fantasy novels for younger readers, although he also created some lovely books of his own, most notably, Miss Jaster's Garden. In this fantastic adventure, apparently first published in 1981, and then reprinted in this 2004 edition, he spins the story of four little Quimbles - miniature people (dolls, most likely) who are dropped by a passing car in the woods, and must make their own way in the forest in which they find themselves. Befriended by a mouse (who towers above them), Quilliam, Quilice, Quint and Quenelope set out to build their own home before winter sets in, learning quite a bit about the resources of the wood in the process...

Really more of a short chapter-book than a picture-book - there are five brief chapters, although the book can't be more than forty pages long - Quimble Wood features an engaging story by Bodecker and sweet black and white artwork by Branka Starr. I did finding myself wondering a little bit about the Quimbles - what were they, exactly? living dolls? miniature people? - and wishing that more background information had been given about them, but then again, other readers might enjoy the mystery created by the in-medias-res opening. The illustrations look to be done in pencil, and have an interesting shaded quality to them, with lots of vertical lines. All in all, this was a charming little fantasy, one that will appeal to readers who enjoy stories like The Borrowers or The Littles. ( )