The Slightly Spooky Tale of Fox and Mole
Cecilia Heikkila author Polly Lawson translator
Format:Hardback
Publisher:Floris Books
Publishing:18th Sep '25
£12.99
This title is due to be published on 18th September, and will be despatched as soon as possible.
"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.
'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
'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 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)
'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
ISBN: 9781782509530
Dimensions: unknown
Weight: 477g
44 pages