The Magic Fox

Chapter One

Poppy's Candles

Poppy skipped along the cobbled street carrying a large wicker basket. Her red hair was tied into two bunches that bounced on her shoulders with every skip. She was wearing a long yellow dress and a gray cloak that was tied tightly under her chin. The little town of Penlee was high up in the hills and the wind could be cold even in the summertime.

"Morning, Poppy!" Mr. Lott called from the bakery. "Have you sold many candles today?"

"Yes!" Poppy paused by the open doorway and breathed in the lovely smell of freshly baked bread. "I've completely sold out of Red Flamers. Lots of people have bought Blue Whispers too." She pulled back the green cloth that was covering her basket and showed him the rows of brightly colored candles inside. "Would you like anything?"

"One Golden Sparkle, please." Mr. Lott handed her a silver coin and a piece of cherry cake in a paper bag. "Here, take this! You must be hungry after all that walking."

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Excerpted from The Magic Fox by Paula Harrison
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