Little Fox in the Forest by Stephanie Graegin

When you find a picture book that makes you think, you've found a treasure. Yes, as much as I love a good story that lulls me or entertains me or comforts me, I also love when that good story makes me wonder and think!

To be clear, I'm talking about the kind of book that has you turning the pages not just to find out what happens next, but also because what you are reading is unexpected. And causes you to dig around more with your eyes to make sure you haven't missed something.

Graegin, Stephanie. Little Fox in the Forest. New York: Random House Children's, 2017. Print. 

There's a lot to this book, and a lot to ponder. The size and shape of the book are suited for young happy arms to carry it about, first of all. The green leaves of the trees catch your attention next, and then our eye turns to the fox, running off the cover with a blue stuffed fox in his clutches. The trees have shadows, and small figures are hidden about (a snail, a raccoon, a bird). 

After you read the story, you will come back to the cover, and more will make sense. (Note the cover is "wrap-around art", too.) 

And before I tell you anymore, I should say it is a wordless book. Librarians and users of Destiny: add this to your Resource List of wordless books! 

The endpapers are clue-givers, both front and back. Again, enjoy them after you have read the whole book. The titles of the books on the shelf make sense, and there is a big change once you get to the endpapers in the back. 

Like a graphic novel, panels help direct the narrative, although not every page contains them. Some are stunning double page spreads, with the brilliant use of a gutter in one particular section (separating main characters, and dividng a tree in just the right spot (not in the center). 

Without telling you too much of the story, I would classify it as magical -- and it brings to mind Aaron Becker's trilogy of Journey, Quest and Return: children navigating the world they live in, being  drawn to the possibility of other places. Somehow, Graegin also me had me hearing the words spoken by the animal characters --- her depiction of them filled with energy. 

Graegin also employs color skillfully -- with a nighttime blue predominant at the beginning, shifting to full, vibrant color as the story builds -- but also (brilliantly) used to identify two different worlds. 

This book will require multiple rereads, but you will be rewarded. And if you own a copy, slip off the dust jacket and enjoy the case cover.  

Little Fox in the Forest is a story of imagination, empathy, and friendship.

And it indeed made me wonder! With joy!