Reviews
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by Cecilia Heikkilä; Translated by Polly Lawson
When generous Fox begins to resent his selfish neighbour a slightly spooky transformation takes place. The Wind in the Willows meets the Brontes in this beautiful and unusual picture book.
"Fox opened the first page of a book. Mole settled cosily, spilling cookie crumbs everywhere. This was how it always was in autumn.
'The Legend of the Scuffling Monster,' read Fox. 'Once upon a time...'"
Fox and Mole live alone on a headland, in two houses, side by side. Mole is carefree and self-centred. Fox is responsible and self-sacrificing.
As autumn draws in, the friends read a spooky story together (that Mole keeps interrupting) about a racoon who transforms into a scuffling monster (a slightly spooky bit) while Mole eats Fox's cookies (all of them). Fox's anger with Mole's lack of consideration builds, and when Mole forgets Fox's birthday, Fox too begins to transform...
Can Mole recognise what's wrong and fix things before it's too late?
This humorously hair-raising gothic tale, told in four chapters, is perfect for older picture book lovers to curl up with on long, dark evenings.
Hardcover, 44 pages.
28 x 21.5 cm.
Published by Floris Books.
Printed in China.
'Equal parts cozy and spooky, this autumnal picture book demonstrates the importance of openness among friends -- and the monstrous consequences of hidden resentments.'
-- Foreword Reviews, Starred Review
'This lightly gothic picture book for readers seeking a "slightly spooky" story illustrates the dual perils of taking more than we give and not asking for what we need.'
-- Shelf Awareness, Starred Review
'Fantastic. Just the right level of chills, with a message that some of us (read: me) probably should take to heart... Delightful stuff.'
-- Betsy Bird, School Library Journal
'This delightfully subversive book dances along the edges of horror... A fantastic pick for a Halloween readaloud.'
-- The Bulletin for the Center for Children's Books
'A thrilling and spooky tale that teaches the importance of caring for others and being considerate of others' feelings.'
-- Adrien Carter, YA Books Central
'Easy to read and fun to look at. This could be a good introduction to scarier stories for young children.'
-- Samantha Gregory, YA Books Central
'A cute little story with just the slightest bit of creepiness to it... An enjoyable read for any time of the year, but especially autumn!'
-- Literary Potpourri
'A simple delightful story about an unusual friendship, full of feelings to explore! The subtle creeping uneasiness of this gothic tale will get children hooked till the end.'
-- Un viaje en libro
'If you're looking for a book with cozy, cottage core autumn vibes, look no further... A book about bravery, manners, and learning to communicate, this is yet another book that can be just as valuable for adults as it is for the children they read it to.'
-- Kathryn Brostowitz, Boswell Book Company (US Indie Bookshop)
'The illustrations are stunning, the writing is lyrical, and the story is well done. This will have kids on the edge of their seats.'
-- Lauren K., US School Librarian
'A real delight for those that enjoyed The Wind in the Willows.
-- Sara R., US Public Librarian
'What makes this story so memorable is its simplicity in transmitting the weight of such a feeling, as is fear, through easy-flowing sentences and immeasurably vivid illustrations... I found myself wanting to experience it again as though for the first time.'
-- Chantel, Goodreads Reviewer
'The spookiest, most delightful book... we are obsessed!'
-- Our Modern Playroom (Instagram)
