Brownie Groundhog and the February Fox

PreS-Gr 2—When Brownie wakes up on the second of February, she opens her door, looks out, and scoffs, "Phooey, six more weeks of winter." She does not like waiting. Before she can go back inside, a fox pounces on her, eager for breakfast. But clever Brownie finds a way to keep him busy through lunch and then dinner, spending their time looking for spring. After some skating, they've both worked up an appetite and the fox is tired of waiting, too. By tricking Fox, Brownie's life is spared and a new friendship begins, just as the first sign of spring arrives. Segovia's acrylic and ink artwork captures the clear sky of winter and accentuates the white/gray of a heavy snowfall. Brownie's black/brown fur is set off with a bright red scarf as an equally vibrant Fox stands out against a chilly landscape. The theme of outfoxing a fox is a familiar one, but this story is particularly endearing. Children will find it delightful.—C. J. Connor, Campbell County Public Library, Cold Spring, KY