Ferdinand Fox's First Summer (Arbordale Collection)
#3 in Life Cycles, Physical & Behavioral Adaptation Series
on Goodreads (51)
What’s inside...
Follow this photographic journal of a red fox as he explores the world around him during the first few months of his life in 'Ferdinand Fox's First Summer.' Documented by naturalist photographer and environmental educator Mary Holland, the story captures the fox named Ferdinand as he emerges from his den at about a month old. Witness his growth as he learns hunting skills through play and sensory exploration, and observe his development from a young kit into a young fox. By next summer, Ferdinand is set to have kits of his own. This book is an Outstanding Science Trade Book and has received the 2013 Bronze Moonbeam Award.
Character compass
Ferdinand Fox
Mother Fox
Discussion points
What do you think Ferdinand Fox felt when he explored the forest for the first time?
Can you describe how the changing seasons might affect Ferdinand and his family?
Why do you think Ferdinand’s mother teaches him to hunt? What other skills do you think are important for him to learn?
How do the other animals in the forest react to Ferdinand? What does this tell us about community?
If you were Ferdinand, what would be your favorite part of the forest to explore?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to depict the emotions of Ferdinand and other characters, enhancing the listening experience for the child.
Pause after reading significant events or changes in the season to ask the child how they think Ferdinand might be feeling or reacting.
Encourage the child to imagine and describe their own forest adventure, drawing parallels to Ferdinand’s experiences.
Discuss the roles of family and the importance of learning new skills, relating them to the child’s own life and learning process.
After reading, spend some time outside, exploring local flora and fauna, to make tangible connections to Ferdinand’s story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Exploration
Explanation: Throughout 'Ferdinand Fox’s First Summer', Ferdinand's inquisitive nature leads him to explore his surroundings, helping him learn about the world.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to explore their own environments, whether it’s a backyard or a local park, to nurture their curiosity and understanding of the world.
Example Lesson: Growth and Development
Explanation: The book follows Ferdinand as he grows from a small pup into a young fox, learning many life skills along the way.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand their own growth and developmental milestones, reassuring them about the natural process of growing up.
Example Lesson: Family Bonds
Explanation: Ferdinand’s interactions with his family, especially his mother, are central to his safety and learning.
Real-World Application: The importance of family support and love can be emphasized to children, showing them the value of strong family relationships.
Example Lesson: Learning Through Play
Explanation: Ferdinand engages in various playful activities that are crucial for his survival skills.
Real-World Application: This highlights how play is not only fun but also an essential part of learning and development, encouraging children to engage in play both for enjoyment and educational benefit.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: As the seasons change in the book, Ferdinand adapts to different challenges that come his way.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of being adaptable in different situations, helping them to cope with changes and challenges in their own lives.