A Very Proper Fox.( Age 4 to 7)
By : Jan Fearnley
Publisher : HarperCollins ( 2006)
With quite a large number of books written about foxes available in the market this caught my attention, first, for it`s interesting cover,in which there`s an illustration of a fox and a hen ,but dancing together! then the fact that the story was narrated deliciously.
Frankie is a very different fox who loves music,who doesn't hunt and likes to keep tidy.He enjoys having beans and toast. But the naughty, cunning rabbit doesn't like it and prod him to catch a chicken and become a proper fox. Frankie desperate to become a proper fox try to do so ,but unfortunately for him every time he tries to catch the hen his desire to be tidy & clean and his love for music overturn him, as the hen is very untidy and a little dirty as well. What`s more.. that Mrs.Mimi,the hen was a singer in the opera!. So they have tea, over buttery crumpets and chocolate cakes they become friends! The tale of the fox,rabbit and hen being twisted this brings out the theme of being different and good & bad friendships.
The story has a very simple and interesting plot, written in very simple language with short sentences.There are few rhyming lines and repetition as well.
"He licked his lips,Flexed his claws,Growled like a proper fox,Low and mean........I`m coming to get you!"
From the cover onward, illustrations are a delightful compliment with a touch of amuse.
Jan Fearnley won many awards and also the author of well known Mr.Wolf book series ( three books)
Actually we found this book in a second hand book shop about a year ago ,interestingly, though I bought it for my younger child, I found my eldest, who`s worn out of picture books reading it, not just once but several times,and every time when he gets to indulge in one his favorite food items. So.... I guess they find this book very delicious!!
