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Sunday, October 3, 2021

How To Find a Fox, written by Kate Gardner and photographed by Ossi Saarinen. Running Press KIds, Hachette. 2021. 22.99 ages 3 and up

 


"Foxes don't hibernate: they spend the whole
year out and about. But a fox will look different
depending on the season. That's because in the 
winter, red foxes have thick coats that keep 
them warm. By spring, this longer, heavier fur 
starts to fall out in clumps so that by summer,
red foxes sport much sleeker haircuts.
"

It is interesting to me that, when looking to see what others had thought about this stunning book, there were few reviews written. Sadly, I was not too surprised. Information books written for children aren't often illustrated with superb photography. Don't get me wrong, there are some. They are few and far between. That's sad. Enough said. 

Ms. Gardner's smooth, telling text gives good advice for those with a dream to see a red fox. They are best found in early morning or at dusk. They can be seen in all seasons. Check meadows and forests. They are even found in the city. Look for quick feet, and a soft bushy tail with a white tip. She shares the places they like to hide, and the sounds they make. Throughout, readers will find additional paragraphs that further inform. 

Ossi Saarinen's magnificent photographs impress with their range of images, and their clarity in capturing the true character of this appealing animal. Readers will be enchanted by the feeling that they could reach out and touch some. In his note he provides sage advice: 

Whenever I discover an animal in the wild, 
I must be very careful. Any sudden movement
or sound may scare them away. If I remain 
quiet, calm, and respectful of their space, the 
animals become accustomed to seeing me and 
are not afraid.

Backmatter includes a note from the photographer and a small Bibliography of sources.                                                                                  


                                                                            

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