Review: Fox and Goldfish

Fox and Goldfish is another glorious production by Book Island. There are only twenty five words of text in this book. Some at the beginning and the rest at the end. The rest of the story is told in pictures. The theme here is facing the loss of a pet, but it definitely relates to the loss of any loved one.

Fox wants to create memories to draw on when his friend leaves him. He also wants Goldfish to share the world with him before he goes. They spend time at the sea and experience a sense of freedom and togetherness.  A long road trip on a motor bike through wild country is followed by the serenity of the sight of a snow-capped mountain. They hike through tall, dark forests, dance in the rain, and watch the rainbow colour the sky.

They ski down a frozen slope, then sit and gaze in silence at the stars and the universe before it is time to let go.

All this is portrayed in striking illustrations created with bold, vivid strokes of brilliant colour which fill the pages. This also reflects the mood of the characters.

This poignant story of loss and accepting the inevitable is beautifully set out in a way children can feel and understand by Flemish author-illustrator Nils Pieters.

Book Island books come with a beautiful book mark identical to the cover.

Title: Fox and Goldfish
Author/Illustrator: Nils Pieters
Publisher: Book Island $29.99 RRP
Publication Date: September 2016
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9780994128218
For ages: 3+
Type: Picture Book