FOX HAS A PROBLEM

Problem-solving is complicated.

Fox’s problem: A kite has gotten tangled in a tree. Fox’s big idea? Hauling over a huge fan whose enormous wind power loosens not only that kite, but also other kites as well as leaves on nearby trees. Someone else now has a problem—those items have filled Bear’s den. Fox’s next big idea involves using a powerful vacuum cleaner to suck up the den’s detritus. It also engulfs Bear, who hilariously fills the overstuffed vacuum bag. A new problem arises for Rabbit, whose burrow’s entrance is blocked by the gigantic bag. So, brandishing a sharp pin, Fox pricks the bag, and it pops, unblocking the burrow but strewing its contents everywhere. One might believe everything’s now OK…but all the animals have a problem—with Fox—plus, every kite’s tangled in the trees again. Fox’s fed-up neighbors ask Fox to leave. But Elephant’s terrific big idea puts everything right. This comical early reader, expressed in understated sentences and simple vocabulary on nearly every page, will charm youngsters; they’ll giggle at Fox’s outlandish “big ideas” and the havoc they wreak. Onomatopoeic sound words heighten the fun. Caldecott Honoree Tabor’s wry illustrations, rendered in pencil, colored pencil, and watercolor and assembled digitally, are muted, set against uncluttered backgrounds, allowing kids to focus on the characters and the humorous proceedings.

Children will have no problem enjoying this delightfully witty book.