Haunt Fox

I haven't read all of Jim Kjelgaard's books, but I have read most of them. Haunt Fox is my favorite, mainly because I am so interested in red foxes. If you are familiar with Mr. Kjelgaard's work, this book will be about what you expect it to be- a solid, interesting story about a boy and his fascination with a legendary fox. If you aren't familiar with Mr. Kjelgaard's work, this book will be an excellent introduction to his classic series. What I like more than anything else about this book, and all of his books, is that the writing comes from the viewpoint of the wild animal involved. I am quite a student of nature myself, and I can tell that Mr. Kjelgaard was too.

When I was younger, "Haunt Fox" was my favorite book. It is not only the story of a very cunning fox named Star, but it is also the story of a boy, Jeff, and his hound. Basically, the farmers of a particular area are after Star, because he keeps raiding their chicken coops. Star is adept at eluding traps, hounds, and men with guns; but Jeff dreams of capturing the fox and succeeding where many others have failed. The main plot of the book centers on Star's life, especially his smartness in avoiding capture (and death), and the subplot deals with Jeff. The ending- which I can't tell you!- is perfect. It brings Star and Jeff together, thus resolving the plots. What is especially endearing about this book is the way in which the animal characters have distinct personalities. You get to know Star and other animals as you do the people in the book. Also, Jim Kjelgaard's keen observations of nature are woven into the book. You get many nature lessons without even realizing it, because they are so well incorporated into the story. If you can find this book, I definitely recommend that you read it; and if you have children, try to get it for them. If you can't buy it, see if your local library has it. "Haunt Fox" is written on an easy level, so both children and adults alike can enjoy the story of Star.

Haunt fox was a lot of fun to read and I couldn't put it down! Mr. Kjelgaard did a great job of character and scene description all throughout the book, and gave a very clear picture of Star's environment. Plus the character's themselves, humans and animals alike, were very well developed and lifelike. I'd recommend this book to anyone, especially those who enjoy reading about foxes, dogs, hunting, or nature.