Old Beaver is tired. The logs seem to grow heavier and heavier every day, and it takes him longer and longer to fell a small tree. So Old Beaver stops building dams and spends his days sunning himself on the roof of his lodge.

"This is not good," declares Owl. "A proper forest with a proper river needs a beaver who builds proper dams!"

The animals decide to replace Old Beaver with a new beaver—one who is young and strong. When Old Beaver learns of their plans, he decides to go away. I'm just a nuisance here, he thinks sadly as he heads off into the forest.

The new beaver is young and strong. But he and the other animals soon discover that wisdom and experience are every bit as important as youth and strength. Is it too late, or can they find Old Beaver and convince him to return?

From the dust jacket