Eleven-year-old Thomas chases a small, crippled rabbit into the forest where he stumbles upon the entrance to a place where departed animals go. Deep in the woods, a gigantic oak has sprung up overnight When the rabbit disappears inside, Thomas is not far behind. There he meets Francis, the proprietor of the marvelous world, a kind and gentle lover of all animals...and people. Francis takes j=him on an adventure through this delightful world filled with lots of fun and laughter, and some scary moments too.