The Rifts of Rime (Quickened Chronicles, #1)

In a world overtaken by greed and a ruthless, power-hungry dictator, Pinecone knows hes no warrior. But when hes entrusted with the sacred Scroll of Quickening, an ancient record that holds great power, Pinecone must summon the courage to protect the scroll. If he doesnt, its secrets will be lost forever. Meanwhile, Pinecones friend Leafe is mounting a makeshift rebellion to fend off the Thane whose evil might grows stronger every day. But her efforts may force her into some troubling alliances. When vicious Thane, the leader of the gray squirrel army, poisons the wise leader of the quickened creatures, the poet Pinecone and his friend Leafe must hide the sacred Scroll of Quickening or risk its destruction.