The Fox and the Forest Fire

Synopsis:

A story of hope and friendship, in which resilience trumps tragedy in the wake of a forest fire.

After moving from the city, one boy discovers his new home in the woods isn't so bad—there is friendship in the midst of the forest. But when he spots a fire on the horizon that soon engulfs everything he's come to know—the bugs, the plants, the fox who keeps him company—he is forced to flee. When his newfound comfort goes up in smoke, how can he ever feel at home again?

In a forest fire, so much can change in an instant. But both fox and boy learn that there are some things fire cannot burn. With time, the forest will regrow, the animals will return to their home, and so will the boy and his mom.

As we all search for tools for understanding the destruction of forest fires, this touching story shows that hope, friendship, and resilience shine the brightest.

Reviews
"Despite the serious and timely topic (with wildfires becoming increasingly common in the American West due to climate change), Popovici’s lean text and gentle cartoon-style paintings keep the tone suitable for young readers. . . . [T]he child audience will understand that families, both human and fox, can thrive after tragedy."—The Horn Book Magazine

"A sensitively told story of an all-too-common occurrence." — Kirkus Reviews

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 5 to 8.

TIMELY: As fires rage over a wider swath of the United States, Canada, and internationally, and as fire season lengthens year after year, and sets new records year after year, these are themes communities are engaging with daily during fire season.

WRITTEN BY A FIREFIGHTER: The author-illustrator was a volunteer firefighter, giving him a unique perspective on the topic of forest fires.

EMOTIONALLY RESONANT: This moving story ends with rebuilding—both for humans and for nature—and with a truly uplifting message of resilience.

COMMUNITY-BUILDING: A wonderful resource for families and communities experiencing the aftermath of a fire or other natural disasters, as well as anyone looking to empathize with, and better understand, those communities in need.

CLASSROOM RESOURCE: Not only is this the perfect resource for talking about topics like the environment, natural disasters, forest management, and emergency preparedness, this book will also spark important conversations about coping with personal and community tragedies. The author-illustrator reflects on his own experiences with forest fires in the author's note, and backmatter provides additional context.

Additional Information
44 pages | 9.35" x 11.35" | Hardcover