How to Find a Fox
on Goodreads (672)
What’s inside...
In this adventurous picture book, How to Find a Fox, a little girl tries to track down an elusive red fox, which proves more difficult than she thought. Equipped with a camera and determination, she sets out on her quest but quickly realizes that foxes are sneaky creatures. Despite the challenges, the story, charmingly told by Nilah Magruder in her debut picture book, emphasizes the importance of not giving up and shows that sometimes what you're looking for is closer than you think.
Discussion points
What do you think the fox feels like being chased? How would you feel in its place?
Why do you think the girl wants to find the fox so much? What does the fox symbolize for her?
How do the pictures help tell the story? Which illustration is your favorite and why?
What does this story teach us about patience and perseverance?
If you were to meet the fox, what would you say to it or ask it?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive tones and facial expressions while reading to mimic the emotions of the characters, making the story come alive for your child.
Pause at key moments in the story to allow your child to predict what might happen next, fostering critical thinking.
After reading, encourage your child to draw their favorite scene from the book, helping them connect visually and emotionally with the story.
Discuss the themes of determination and patience illustrated in the book, relating them to real-life scenarios your child might face.
Ask your child to think of alternative endings to the story, enhancing their creative and imaginative skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Persistence
Explanation: The main character in 'How to Find a Fox' demonstrates persistence as they search tirelessly for a fox, despite numerous challenges and setbacks.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of persistence by sticking with tasks or challenges they face in their daily activities, such as completing a difficult puzzle or learning a new skill.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Throughout the story, the character uses creative thinking and problem-solving skills to track down the fox, showcasing different strategies to achieve their goal.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of thinking through problems and exploring various solutions in real-world scenarios, like figuring out how to share toys or resolving a disagreement with a friend.
Example Lesson: Patience
Explanation: The journey to find the fox requires the character to wait and be patient, demonstrating that not all objectives are immediately attainable.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to practice patience in their own lives, whether waiting for their turn on the playground or for a special event they're looking forward to.
Example Lesson: Observation Skills
Explanation: The character carefully observes the environment for signs of the fox, enhancing their attention to detail and awareness.
Real-World Application: This can be applied to a child’s life by encouraging them to observe and absorb more of their surroundings, helping in educational settings or in nature explorations.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Despite the difficulties faced in finding the fox, the character remains resilient and optimistic.
Real-World Application: This reinforces the concept of resilience in children, helping them bounce back from setbacks at school or in social settings.