Gon, the Little Fox [Hardcover]

Winner of:
2016 USSB Outstanding International Book

In this retelling of Nankichi Niimi’s masterpiece, delicate watercolors bring to life the mischievous yet kind-hearted spirit of Gon, the Little Fox. Readers should proceed with caution as they begin this tale, however, especially as Gon is sure to win over their hearts. Like many Japanese folktales,Gon, The Little Foxdoes not exactly end happily; a circumstance which will inspire lively and provocative conversation among young readers.

 

When readers first meet Gon, he is relishing his life as a rascally fox. Each day brings a new opportunity for him to stir up trouble in Nakayama. One day, however, he feels remorse for having killed an eel that was meant for the poor villager Hyoju’s dying mother. Ironically, it is this rare moment of conscience that leads Gon down a path that leads to his fate. 

 

As with all great folktales, the world ofGon, The Little Foxis both extremely familiar and extremely mysterious. This quality, as evident in both the text and illustrations, will greatly appeal to readers, both young and old. 

"Mita's beautiful and delicate original watercolors offer readers' eyes large and lovely resting places as they make their ways through this long tale . . . . it is a valuable introduction to a non-Western storytelling aesthetic." —Kirkus Reviews

"The sad ending is often a shock to young readers, however many social lessons are taught through the story: instances when you hurt someone without knowing, when a relationship goes wrong from miscommunication, as well as the meaning of life." —Yukiko Takada,NY Seikatsu

"This story is a valuable read for young people (it is geared towards children ages seven to ten) because of all the lessons mentioned. In addition to the negative consequences of juvenill³.