Allen & Unwin

February 2004 $15.95

40p pb

ISBN: 1-86448-933-2

fp 2000

Fox is a truly remarkable book; one which fuses author and illustrator into a single entity, more powerful than each on their own. Both words and illustrations are incredibly moving and evocative. This is one book which transcends categorization – it is simply a book for all ages, with a wisdom to touch everyone.

It tells the tale of two damaged characters, Dog with his missing eye and Magpie with her burnt wing who together overcome their obstacles and find comfort and friendship with each other. Into their life comes Fox with his haunted eyes and rich red coat. He is welcomed by Dog who is accepting, however Magpie senses there is something about Fox and is wary of him and his smell of rage and envy and loneliness. Like the snake in the Garden of Eden, Fox tempts Magpie with what she cannot have, until she finally accepts…

Fox shows how we need to be thankful for what we have and not be tempted by others as ‘the grass is not always greener on the other side’. It also makes one think about Fox and what must have happened to him to do what he does. This is a haunting book which will long remain with the reader. It is one of my all time favourite picture books. If you haven’t already discovered this book for yourself, then you must get a copy of Fox now that it is available in paperback.

Trent, Canberra, ACT

Like a rare gem, it is not in every book that you find a deep meaning, and not every book that leaves a lasting impression. Fox by Margaret Wild and Ron Brooks is that rare gem. 

Fox tells a story of Dog with no sight in one eye and Magpie without wings to fly that together become dependent on one another and become each other’s missing senses. When a lonely fox enters the friendship, the atmosphere begins to change as their friendship is put to the ultimate test - the test of loyalty.  

The unique thing about the story Fox is that the understanding and the meaning of the book can vary from reader to reader. Fox stands as a metaphor, which each reader relates to differently. The book is unique because the illustrations help to tell the story providing a visual mix of colour and illustration that enhance the storyline. 

I think that the book is of high quality and have added it to my list of favourites. I recommend it to other readers 12+. Out of ten I think that Fox deserves a 9.

Fox is a rare gem.

Tanja, aged 12, Canberra, ACT