MUNGO ON HIS OWN

A youngster learns to forage by himself.

Mungo and his mother, a pair of adorable, big-eyed foxes, share a warm den in the forest. Red berries are on Mungo’s mind, and his mother agrees that it’s time for him to search for them on his own. Setting off for the faraway berry bush, the little fox encounters creeping sounds, icy water, a beast “with flashing eyes” (readers will identify it as a car), and a twisted thorn thicket seemingly filled with spooky faces. Mirrors for his feelings, Mungo’s yellow eyes and shivering orange fur pop against the dark, immersive forest illustrations. He almost turns tail and returns to his den, but a change in mindset pushes him to continue, and at last, he accomplishes his tasty goal. His night journey demonstrates that bravery and fear often walk side by side and reminds readers to draw strength from existing knowledge and memories of happier times. Nature shares a surprise wintry first to celebrate Mungo’s perseverance, and youngsters will join in the joyful acknowledgement of growth and pride. Burgess’ soft text poetically reflects Mungo’s ups and downs, potentially sparking conversations about his emotions—or how a child might feel in Mungo’s paws. Benbassat’s illustrations adeptly convey big feelings like fear; sensitive readers may find some spreads a bit frightening.

Youngsters will fall for this cute little fox on his exciting journey of courage and growth.