The Fox in the Dark

K-Gr 2—A hungry fox is hunting for a meal. Rabbit senses his presence and scampers home as fast as he can. Slamming the door behind him, he takes a moment to breathe when a dreaded knock comes at the door. Could it be the fox, boldly coming after his dinner? No, it is Duck, who is also seeking shelter. Though Rabbit is reluctant to share his bed, he welcomes him in. Soon Mouse and Lamb join the two, and the entire troop is squashed in the too-small bed. When another knock comes, Duck throws open the door without a thought to find Fox Cub on the doorstep. The mortified animals are relieved to discover he is in need of comfort and a bed as he has lost his mother. Not far behind is toothsome Mother Fox, who is so relieved to find her baby safe that she offers her soft, furry body as a cozy bed for the entire gang. Allwright's warm and comforting mixed-media illustrations are full of soft lines and earth tones, which balance the threat felt by the animals and make Rabbit's home a safe haven. Young children will squeal every time they hear the knock at the door, but will be relieved by the gentle ending.—Heather Acerro, Allen County Public Library, Fort Wayne, IN