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Argyle Fox
Argyle Fox, with his signature style, wants to play outside on a springtime day, but the wind is wreaking havoc with his fun and games. As soon as he builds a card tower, climbs into a giant spider web, or takes up his pirate sword, here comes the wind: Woosh! Mama Fox tells grumpy Argyle that if he thinks long enough, he will come up with something to do. Following his mother's suggestion and inspired by her knitting, he works all the pieces of his day together and creates the perfect solution. The story of Argyle teaches that failure is often a path to success and celebrates perseverance, creative thinking, and an old-fashioned springtime activity.
32 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2017
4 people are currently reading
531 people want to read
About the author
Marie Letourneau
13 books34 followers
Marie Letourneau lives on Long Island, NY. Born in Queens, NY, Marie's family moved to Long Island when she was 5 years old. She grew up in Babylon Village - a quiet little town on the Great South Bay. Marie practically grew up on the beach. She has been interested in illustrating and writing for as far back as she can remember. As child, she would make little books out of paper and staples and give them to family members as gifts. Marie is mostly self-taught, but studied fine arts at Hoftsra University's New College where she earned her BFA. In 2006, her first book as both author and illustrator entitled, "The Mice of Bistrot des Sept Freres" (Tanglewood Books) won ForeWord Magazine's Indie Book of the Year Award, Bronze Medal. She has done design work for (and appeared on) The Nate Berkus Show, and The Revolution with fashion icon Tim Gunn. In 2014, Marie was a finalist in the Martha Stewart American Made Awards for her stationery shop Le French Circus, on Etsy. She loves the beach, animals, beets, roller skating, Star Wars, coffee and writing.
Marie Letourneau lives on Long Island, NY. Born in Queens, NY, Marie's family moved to Long Island when she was 5 years old. She grew up in Babylon Village - a quiet little town on the Great South Bay. Marie practically grew up on the beach. She has been interested in illustrating and writing for as far back as she can remember. As child, she would make little books out of paper and staples and give them to family members as gifts. Marie is mostly self-taught, but studied fine arts at Hoftsra University's New College where she earned her BFA. In 2006, her first book as both author and illustrator entitled, "The Mice of Bistrot des Sept Freres" (Tanglewood Books) won ForeWord Magazine's Indie Book of the Year Award, Bronze Medal. She has done design work for (and appeared on) The Nate Berkus Show, and The Revolution with fashion icon Tim Gunn. In 2014, Marie was a finalist in the Martha Stewart American Made Awards for her stationery shop Le French Circus, on Etsy. She loves the beach, animals, beets, roller skating, Star Wars, coffee and writing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 237 reviews
May 20, 2020
MORE HAPPY BIRTHDAY, GREG!!
this is an adorable children’s picture book about a feisty fox, but it’s also one of those children’s entertainments studded with nuggets of life lessons. this one manages to deliver its message without being cloying or off-putting, which is wonderful, because i am allergic to being told how to live, and i suspect foxen are as well.
young argyle fox wants to play outside, but every game he plays ends up ruined by the ‘rotten, wicked, spiteful’ wind. every time he announces his plans, he is warned by some well-meaning creature or other that this particular game might not work well in the wind, but argyle fox is stubborn and determined, although admittedly, those creatures turn out to be correct every time, even when it comes to games that should totally work in the wind, like pirate or spider, or even soccer.
FWOOOOOSSSHHHH (insert wind-noises here)
d’oh
after five failed attempts, argyle fox is very fed up indeed, and stomps back home, shouting, “I’m never playing in the wind ever, ever, EVER again!” and having himself a good pout.
but mama fox is a wise vixen, and she gently encourages him to think hard and surely he will be able to come up with a game that will be perfect for windy-day play.
and he does, because he is a fox full of cleverness and bags full of tricks, and also because a children’s story that ended in despair would not be very appealing, The Velveteen Rabbit aside.
there are many lessons and values at play here: persistence, overcoming life’s obstacles, resourcefulness, lateral thinking, and creative problem-solving. but it’s also a subtle reminder about all the fun that can be had in the great outdoors, all active and wild and free, because no wind is really going to stop pirate play.
frankly, i’m not sure that most of these are lessons this particular fox really needed to learn, since he proved he was creative and resourceful enough to come up with five ideas all on his own, many of which involved homemade props, but i’m always on board with books that emphasize low-tech, high-imagination funtimes, so a little preaching to the choir is fine by me.
the only real lesson argyle fox might have learned here is the one about “listening to others who are just trying to save you from wasting your time,” but that is a lesson that is NO FUN AT ALL, and it’s important for foxen to discover things for themselves, not to just blindly obey some groundhog.
i also like how sassy argyle fox is. he is taking advice from NO ONE, and he’s not afraid to tap into his predator-impulses:
very cute, very fun, and i’m always here to thumbs-up a good foxen tale.
please excuse the poor quality of the pictures - i got this from netgalley, so they were snapped off of my computer, which, like house of cards on a windy day, is always a bad idea. i will try to remember to re-photograph from the actual book in the future. because obviously i’m going to want to own this one.
come to my blog!
this is an adorable children’s picture book about a feisty fox, but it’s also one of those children’s entertainments studded with nuggets of life lessons. this one manages to deliver its message without being cloying or off-putting, which is wonderful, because i am allergic to being told how to live, and i suspect foxen are as well.
young argyle fox wants to play outside, but every game he plays ends up ruined by the ‘rotten, wicked, spiteful’ wind. every time he announces his plans, he is warned by some well-meaning creature or other that this particular game might not work well in the wind, but argyle fox is stubborn and determined, although admittedly, those creatures turn out to be correct every time, even when it comes to games that should totally work in the wind, like pirate or spider, or even soccer.
FWOOOOOSSSHHHH (insert wind-noises here)
d’oh
after five failed attempts, argyle fox is very fed up indeed, and stomps back home, shouting, “I’m never playing in the wind ever, ever, EVER again!” and having himself a good pout.
but mama fox is a wise vixen, and she gently encourages him to think hard and surely he will be able to come up with a game that will be perfect for windy-day play.
and he does, because he is a fox full of cleverness and bags full of tricks, and also because a children’s story that ended in despair would not be very appealing, The Velveteen Rabbit aside.
there are many lessons and values at play here: persistence, overcoming life’s obstacles, resourcefulness, lateral thinking, and creative problem-solving. but it’s also a subtle reminder about all the fun that can be had in the great outdoors, all active and wild and free, because no wind is really going to stop pirate play.
frankly, i’m not sure that most of these are lessons this particular fox really needed to learn, since he proved he was creative and resourceful enough to come up with five ideas all on his own, many of which involved homemade props, but i’m always on board with books that emphasize low-tech, high-imagination funtimes, so a little preaching to the choir is fine by me.
the only real lesson argyle fox might have learned here is the one about “listening to others who are just trying to save you from wasting your time,” but that is a lesson that is NO FUN AT ALL, and it’s important for foxen to discover things for themselves, not to just blindly obey some groundhog.
i also like how sassy argyle fox is. he is taking advice from NO ONE, and he’s not afraid to tap into his predator-impulses:
very cute, very fun, and i’m always here to thumbs-up a good foxen tale.
please excuse the poor quality of the pictures - i got this from netgalley, so they were snapped off of my computer, which, like house of cards on a windy day, is always a bad idea. i will try to remember to re-photograph from the actual book in the future. because obviously i’m going to want to own this one.
come to my blog!
November 26, 2017
Argyle Fox is a colorfully and creatively illustrated children's book. Argyle is busy looking for something to do on a windy day. His mom encourages him to stop and think, and he finally capitalizes on the best way to spend a day in the wind. This was pure fun. I hope we will see some more adventures with Argyle in the future.
Thanks to Marie Letourneau, Tanglewood Publishing, and Netgalley, for the opportunity to read this book.
Thanks to Marie Letourneau, Tanglewood Publishing, and Netgalley, for the opportunity to read this book.
May 23, 2017
This is a delightful children's book about Argyle Fox trying to play outside on a windy spring day. The wind goes "wooosh" and spoils his tall card tower, tangles his yarn web, blows off his pirate hat, blows his ball into a tree and blows apart his castle.
Argyle Fox gathered his things and went home.
"I'm never playing in the wind ever, ever, EVER again!"
Mama Fox suggested that he think and figure out something to play in the wind. After a lot of thought he finally solves the problem.
The whimsical colourful illustrations easily lend themselves to discussions about what is happening and making predictions.
ARGYLE FOX written and illustrated by Marie Letourneau would be a great book to read to young children, and read with early readers. I highly recommend this book for libraries.
5 stars
Special thanks to NetGalley, Tanglewood Publishing, Inc. and the author for providing me with the opportunity to read and review an ARC of this book.
Argyle Fox gathered his things and went home.
"I'm never playing in the wind ever, ever, EVER again!"
Mama Fox suggested that he think and figure out something to play in the wind. After a lot of thought he finally solves the problem.
The whimsical colourful illustrations easily lend themselves to discussions about what is happening and making predictions.
ARGYLE FOX written and illustrated by Marie Letourneau would be a great book to read to young children, and read with early readers. I highly recommend this book for libraries.
5 stars
Special thanks to NetGalley, Tanglewood Publishing, Inc. and the author for providing me with the opportunity to read and review an ARC of this book.
March 5, 2020
Thank you Tanglewood Publishing and NetGalley for this free advance copy in return for an honest review. A cute bedtime book to read to your children or grandchildren. Argyle Fox is bored and wants to go outside to play. Despite his mother and neighbors telling him he it is too windy to play he challenges the wind, and every time he does so WOOSH, the wind comes and he is unable to play what he had wanted to. He seems defeated until he figures out what he can play with to take advantage of the wind and is successful. A good book, a good lesson and colorful illustrations. I liked this book quite a lot!
February 17, 2017
Argyle Fox is determined to have a great time outside in that beautiful spring afternoon, but the wind is not cooperating. The card fly, his spider net gets tangled, his castle collapses, and it is impossible to shoot the ball in the right direction. Argyle is really mad. He is not playing outside never again. Mom encourages him to keep thinking until he can find something to play in the wind. After lots of thinking, it comes to him. Kites are the best for windy days. And the more, the merrier.
Argyle is a lovely character, and it is wonderful see him having so many ideas for screen-free fun. I LOVE stories that highlight the amazing art of playing far from screens. I am always grateful for that. The illustrations are beautiful. I particularly liked Argyle's mom, not sure why.
I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Argyle is a lovely character, and it is wonderful see him having so many ideas for screen-free fun. I LOVE stories that highlight the amazing art of playing far from screens. I am always grateful for that. The illustrations are beautiful. I particularly liked Argyle's mom, not sure why.
I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 27, 2017
I would like to thank NetGalley and Tanglewood Publishing Inc. for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
It was time that I read more children’s books from NetGalley and I happened to pick up another children’s book from NetGalley called “Argyle Fox” by Marie Letourneau and I actually found this book to be quite cute!
The story starts off with a young fox named Argyle Fox who wanted to go outside and play, but his mother warns him that it is very windy outside and that he might not be able to play the games that he wanted to play. But, Argyle Fox went outside to play with his cards anyway and while Argyle was playing with his cards, the wind blows his cards away and Argyle had to go back home to find something else to play with. Argyle then finds an old spider costume and decided to play as a spider in the trees outside. But the squirrels warned Argyle that it is too windy outside to play as a spider. But Argyle ignored the squirrels’ warnings and continued playing outside, but then the wind comes up and blows at Argyle, which causes him to get tangled in his homemade webs. Argyle then goes back home and tried to find another game to play outside and every time Argyle tries to find a new game to play on this windy day, the wind just keeps on messing up his games. Just as Argyle was going to give up playing games outside, his mother quietly encourages to think of another game to play on a windy day.
What game can Argyle play on a windy day?
Read this book to find out!
I have been reading many children’s books that deal with the main characters (usually children) trying to find a fun game to play whether they are inside or outside and it has been awhile since I had read such as book as this. Marie Letourneau has done a great job at telling a story about a young fox’s determination to play outside, despite it being a windy day and I enjoyed seeing the various games that Argyle tries out on the windy day such as playing as a spider and playing as a pirate. I also like the fact that Argyle never gave up on trying to find the right game to play on the windy day as it shows that he has a lot of determination in trying out various games, no matter how windy the day got. I really loved the fact that Argyle’s mother was supportive of Argyle’s determination in finding the perfect game to play on a windy day as it was great seeing a parent support their child during their time of need and I liked the fact that Argyle’s mother encouraged Argyle to find a different game that would be more suitable to play in the wind. Marie Letourneau’s artwork is adorable and colorful to look at as I loved the images of Argyle Fox doing different activities such as playing as a spider and playing as a pirate and I also loved the images of the wind coming in with the words “WHOOSH” accompanying it as it gives it a huge presence in the story.
The reason why I gave this story a four-star rating was because even though I found the story to be really cute, I have already read plenty of children’s books where the main character is trying to find a new game to play either outside or inside the house and I just found this story to be a bit repetitive at this point.
Overall, “Argyle Fox” is a truly cute story about encouraging children to find good games to play on a windy day and I would recommend this book to children ages four and up since there is nothing inappropriate in this book.
Review is also on: Rabbit Ears Book Blog
November 29, 2020
Argyle is a little fox, who lives with his mother inside a tree in a forest. It tends to get windy there in springtime, but Argyle consistently wants to play outside in ways that may be difficult in windy weather.
His various ideas are presented in cute and detailed drawings, and show Argyle to be quite persistant in the face of windy defeat.
Then our intrepid little manimal takes all his ideas and synthesises them into play that should easily take on the weather. A moment of learning leading to moments of happiness.
(Picked up a review copy through NetGalley)
His various ideas are presented in cute and detailed drawings, and show Argyle to be quite persistant in the face of windy defeat.
Then our intrepid little manimal takes all his ideas and synthesises them into play that should easily take on the weather. A moment of learning leading to moments of happiness.
(Picked up a review copy through NetGalley)
August 4, 2017
Somehow the art reminds me of embroidery and crochet. Coming to the story, Argyle is a little fox who goes out to play, but every time he tries to play something his plan gets ruined because it is windy. Read the book to find out if he can come up with anything to play despite the gust of wind.
I'd recommend this book to children (and adults who like children's books).
Note: I received a free copy of the book from the publisher. The review and rating are my own and not influenced in any way.
I'd recommend this book to children (and adults who like children's books).
Note: I received a free copy of the book from the publisher. The review and rating are my own and not influenced in any way.
March 5, 2020
Thank you Tanglewood Publishing and NetGalley for this free advance copy in return for an honest review. A cute bedtime book to read to your children or grandchildren. Argyle Fox is bored and wants to go outside to play. Despite his mother and neighbors telling him he it is too windy to play he challenges the wind, and every time he does so WOOSH, the wind comes and he is unable to play what he had wanted to. He seems defeated until he figures out what he can play with to take advantage of the wind and is successful. A good book, a good lesson and colorful illustrations. I liked this book quite a lot!
April 18, 2021
3.5 Stars
Argyle Fox is a cute story of a young fox who wants to play outside on a windy day. He chooses games that cannot be played in the wind though some did seem quite possible.
He goes back home feeling sad when his mom gives him a nudge to think of something he can do in the wind. The concept is sweet, and the illustrations were rather cute. However, it felt like the young fox was a little too casual with his language. Not a problem in other books, but if it’s for kids, some parents may not like it much. Overall, I like it but didn’t love it.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Tanglewood Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Argyle Fox is a cute story of a young fox who wants to play outside on a windy day. He chooses games that cannot be played in the wind though some did seem quite possible.
He goes back home feeling sad when his mom gives him a nudge to think of something he can do in the wind. The concept is sweet, and the illustrations were rather cute. However, it felt like the young fox was a little too casual with his language. Not a problem in other books, but if it’s for kids, some parents may not like it much. Overall, I like it but didn’t love it.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Tanglewood Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 17, 2020
Argyle Fox does a good job of keeping himself entertained, but today is too windy for everything he wants to do - all of his toys and projects keep blowing away.
If only he could come up with something to do outdoors on a windy day . . .
He's a very clever, and adorable fox!
If only he could come up with something to do outdoors on a windy day . . .
He's a very clever, and adorable fox!
March 10, 2019
Thank you Net Galley for this book to review.
This is a determined little fox that wants to go outside and play even though it’s windy. Everyone he runs into tells him that it not good to play certain games outside when it’s windy but he has to learn the hard way. If he wants to play outside he must think if the perfect thing to do! This is a good book to read to younger kids to make them think and get involved in the book.
This is a determined little fox that wants to go outside and play even though it’s windy. Everyone he runs into tells him that it not good to play certain games outside when it’s windy but he has to learn the hard way. If he wants to play outside he must think if the perfect thing to do! This is a good book to read to younger kids to make them think and get involved in the book.
February 19, 2017
Argyle Fox is a young fox who is determined to have a great time outside. Unfortunatley it is windy out and the wind does not cooperate. Everytime he gets an activity set up, the wind blows and wreaks havoc with his materials. His cards blow away, his spider net gets tangled, his castle collapses, his pirate hat blows off and his soccer ball ends up in a tree. He gets upset and goes in the house complaining. His mother encourages him to keep thinking because there is an activity that is perfect for a windy day. After lots of thinking, it comes to him. Kites are the best for windy days and he makes a wonderful one. When his friends see it, he makes more kites and they all join in the fun.
I loved Argyle Fox. He is a great character who wants to play outside. Everything he plays uses him imagination. He had such great ideas, too bad the wind did not cooperate with him. I loved that his mom just kept encouraging him to think of another activity instead of telling him what he could do, or worse yet, having him stay in the house and watch television or play on other technology devices. The illustrations are beautiful, colourful, detailed and full of expressions and helpful friends. This is a great book for family libraries as well as schools and classrooms. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book via Netgalley.
I loved Argyle Fox. He is a great character who wants to play outside. Everything he plays uses him imagination. He had such great ideas, too bad the wind did not cooperate with him. I loved that his mom just kept encouraging him to think of another activity instead of telling him what he could do, or worse yet, having him stay in the house and watch television or play on other technology devices. The illustrations are beautiful, colourful, detailed and full of expressions and helpful friends. This is a great book for family libraries as well as schools and classrooms. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book via Netgalley.
May 6, 2017
(I received an ARC from the NETGALLEY)
RATING: 4.5 STARS
(Review Not on Blog)
I loved both the story and the illustrations. Argyle is looking for something to do in the outdoors but it is very windy out. His mother and others warn him that each of his activities will be foiled with the wind...and sadly, it does. Argyle doesn't give up and finds the perfect activity for a windy day. I highly recommend this book!!
RATING: 4.5 STARS
(Review Not on Blog)
I loved both the story and the illustrations. Argyle is looking for something to do in the outdoors but it is very windy out. His mother and others warn him that each of his activities will be foiled with the wind...and sadly, it does. Argyle doesn't give up and finds the perfect activity for a windy day. I highly recommend this book!!
March 22, 2018
A cute, little fox with an adorable name, Argyle, encounters a very windy day. Determined to play and have fun, he pulls out various of his toys but each time inevitably the wind gets in the way. Sullen and disappointed, Argyle makes his way back inside, giving up on the day when his Mom mentions there may be a way yet to enjoy the windy day. After a good think, Argyle finally realizes that by combining some of his playthings and toys, he can indeed enjoy his day with the help of the wind.
I really loved the simplicity of the message in this book. It definitely inspires ingenuity and creativeness to accomplish a goal. The artwork is really lovely. I think this book would be an excellent addition to the classroom library as well for the preschool/Kindergarten/First grade age group. I could see this book used to spur on a lesson with a kite-making activity as well.
Thanks to NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this lovely little book.
I really loved the simplicity of the message in this book. It definitely inspires ingenuity and creativeness to accomplish a goal. The artwork is really lovely. I think this book would be an excellent addition to the classroom library as well for the preschool/Kindergarten/First grade age group. I could see this book used to spur on a lesson with a kite-making activity as well.
Thanks to NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this lovely little book.
March 7, 2017
I love the illustrations in this book. It helps that I love foxes (how could anyone not?) but they are also so detailed and filled with little treasures for children to find when they’re reading.
This is a short book, but it is long enough that it would suit being adapted for Talk for Writing style work with a class. In fact, I think I might use it for just that with my year 1 class next year.
The story is quite repetitive but without being too dull. This makes it perfect for young children to join in with and edit/adapt to make it their own.
What I liked about this book was that I could instantly see how I could use it in class. It focuses on windy weather conditions and specifically on playing games in the wind. Instantly I could see lessons based around science (materials/habitats), maths (measurements/seasons/shape/counting), art/D&T (sketches, collages or even making our own kites!), story writing (TFW), and just about everything in between. Given the bright and lovely images throughout, this could make for some lovely displays too, now we’re really into teacher geekiness!
All in all, a solid 4 star book which could easily be adapted and used for Early Years or right the way through KS1.
This is a short book, but it is long enough that it would suit being adapted for Talk for Writing style work with a class. In fact, I think I might use it for just that with my year 1 class next year.
The story is quite repetitive but without being too dull. This makes it perfect for young children to join in with and edit/adapt to make it their own.
What I liked about this book was that I could instantly see how I could use it in class. It focuses on windy weather conditions and specifically on playing games in the wind. Instantly I could see lessons based around science (materials/habitats), maths (measurements/seasons/shape/counting), art/D&T (sketches, collages or even making our own kites!), story writing (TFW), and just about everything in between. Given the bright and lovely images throughout, this could make for some lovely displays too, now we’re really into teacher geekiness!
All in all, a solid 4 star book which could easily be adapted and used for Early Years or right the way through KS1.
March 14, 2017
Argyle Fox loves to play outside, but because of the wind, all the activities he tries get ruined. Just when he's ready to give up, his mother encourages him to use his creativity and problem solving skills to come up with something to do that will work with the wind. While most adults will quickly figure out what Argyle is going to come up with, it is still a pleasure to see the little foxes' excitement and ingenuity on display as he uses all his previous toys to create something new. And when he turns around and helps his friends to find fun too, it's all the better. Themes of imaginative play, problem solving, friendship, and weather make this book perfect for a wide variety of story times. And the "WOOSH" of the wind makes for a perfect opportunity to get children interacting with the story. And the illustrations are adorable to boot.
March 29, 2017
Argyle Fox by Marie Letourneau Argyle Fox by Marie Letourneau is a cleverly written children's book for ages three to seven. Argyle is a smart little fox who learns the different things he cannot do on a windy day and finally figures out what he could do that would be fun. I gave it four stars.
I received a complimentary copy from Tanglewood and NetGalley. That did not change my opinion for this review.
Link to purchase: https://www.amazon.com/Argyle-Fox-Mar...
This book is in pre-order status until March 14, 2017. I could not leave a review on Amazon or Barnes & Noble.
I received a complimentary copy from Tanglewood and NetGalley. That did not change my opinion for this review.
Link to purchase: https://www.amazon.com/Argyle-Fox-Mar...
This book is in pre-order status until March 14, 2017. I could not leave a review on Amazon or Barnes & Noble.
January 23, 2017
A cute story about a fox who is trying to play in the wind. But the wind blows everything down or away. But if he thinks real hard bet he can find fun in the wind.
May 9, 2017
Adorable! I love foxes and honestly Argyle's spider costume looked a lot like y Black Widow spider costume from when I was like 6.
June 8, 2019
Argyle Fox by Marie Letourneau is a story of a young fox who wants to play outside on a windy day. Over and over and over again he tries to find different ways to play, but the wind keeps winning and Argyle's playtime keeps getting interrupted and disturbed, forcing him to find 'yet another' way to play outside. He finally gets frustrated enough that decides to quit playing outside on windy days forever. However, with a gentle push from his mother he thinks up a way that he can play outside 'with' the wind.
Lovely little story of never giving up and not letting disappointments keep you down. The pictures are lovely and give off a happy, serene vibe that help tell Argyle's story.
Recommended age is 3-7. With this story, I can certainly see some of Argyle's games being acted out by the reader as well as the wind sounds. I also appreciated how Argyle cleans up after himself and puts his things away.
Thank you to Netgalley and Tanglewood Publishing for review copy of this delightful picture book.
Lovely little story of never giving up and not letting disappointments keep you down. The pictures are lovely and give off a happy, serene vibe that help tell Argyle's story.
Recommended age is 3-7. With this story, I can certainly see some of Argyle's games being acted out by the reader as well as the wind sounds. I also appreciated how Argyle cleans up after himself and puts his things away.
Thank you to Netgalley and Tanglewood Publishing for review copy of this delightful picture book.
March 7, 2017
Argyle Fox wants to play outside, but the wind keeps blowing and ruining all his fun. Grumpy, he returns home determined to never play in the wind again. His mom suggests that he find a way to play with the wind, not against it. He comes up with the perfect windy, day solution.
My Thoughts-
First, let's look at the story. This is a wonderful tale involving the age-old principle of perseverance. Argyle attempts to play cards, build a spider web and many more fun activities, but the wind keeps destroying his work. Like many children, he gets frustrated, angry and then gives up.
His wise mom tells him to, "Figure out something to play in the wind." At first, Argyle grumbles, but then he takes a moment to think and wonder if maybe he can try something new, something he hasn't played yet. He becomes determined to overcome his problem. Not only that, but he uses all of his previous failed attempts at play to build something that will work with the wind. Voila, by cutting, knitting, painting and gluing he constructs a kite. His previous failures lead to his new success! Great moral.
Of course, besides the story, we have the illustrations. I enjoyed the color choices, in particular, the bold orange of the string and the fox pelts. I also liked that the story and the pictures combine to bring the reader into the action. Every time the wind blows it goes "Woosh", but instead of reading what happens, the illustrations are used to show us the disastrous results.
One side point, Argyle fox always wears an argyle scarf (thus his name I assume), and I wonder if children will actually know what an argyle pattern means without an explanation.
This is a really cute story with playtime activities, emotions, and problems that kids will relate too. I think it will be a fun read for kids so I'm giving it 4 stars!
My Thoughts-
First, let's look at the story. This is a wonderful tale involving the age-old principle of perseverance. Argyle attempts to play cards, build a spider web and many more fun activities, but the wind keeps destroying his work. Like many children, he gets frustrated, angry and then gives up.
His wise mom tells him to, "Figure out something to play in the wind." At first, Argyle grumbles, but then he takes a moment to think and wonder if maybe he can try something new, something he hasn't played yet. He becomes determined to overcome his problem. Not only that, but he uses all of his previous failed attempts at play to build something that will work with the wind. Voila, by cutting, knitting, painting and gluing he constructs a kite. His previous failures lead to his new success! Great moral.
Of course, besides the story, we have the illustrations. I enjoyed the color choices, in particular, the bold orange of the string and the fox pelts. I also liked that the story and the pictures combine to bring the reader into the action. Every time the wind blows it goes "Woosh", but instead of reading what happens, the illustrations are used to show us the disastrous results.
One side point, Argyle fox always wears an argyle scarf (thus his name I assume), and I wonder if children will actually know what an argyle pattern means without an explanation.
This is a really cute story with playtime activities, emotions, and problems that kids will relate too. I think it will be a fun read for kids so I'm giving it 4 stars!
November 25, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and Tanglewood Publishing for accepting my request to read and review Argyle Fox.
Author: Marie Letourneau
Published: 03/14/17
Genre: Children's Fiction
I am freely admitting, I did not see the ending coming.
A young fox wants to play outside, and has a list of things to do, only to be stopped by the wind. His mother wisely advises him to play inside. The story shows his frustrations and the ultimate coming together.
The illustrations are cute, but not over the top. The coloring is muted.
I would gift this.
Author: Marie Letourneau
Published: 03/14/17
Genre: Children's Fiction
I am freely admitting, I did not see the ending coming.
A young fox wants to play outside, and has a list of things to do, only to be stopped by the wind. His mother wisely advises him to play inside. The story shows his frustrations and the ultimate coming together.
The illustrations are cute, but not over the top. The coloring is muted.
I would gift this.
July 27, 2020
A little fox wants to play outside but every game he chooses is unsuitable for the weather but he keeps trying until he finds something that is perfect for windy days outside.
The book is full of lovely illustrations, and it is a sweet, simple and fun story about perseverance and creative play.
I'd recommend for kids up to age six or seven.
The book is full of lovely illustrations, and it is a sweet, simple and fun story about perseverance and creative play.
I'd recommend for kids up to age six or seven.
March 20, 2018
The story and illustrations in this book are so cute and adorable. Love that it encourages problem solving and teaches perseverance. My three littles ages seven, four, and two really enjoyed the story and asked for it to be read again and again.
October 25, 2020
Argygle Fox goes outside to play, but the wind keeps messing up his plans. A cute and fun picture book. Colorful artwork.
March 8, 2017
This book at first glance is absolutely adorable. I had my five-year-old son sit down with me to read it and since he is part of a school challenge I let him read it to me.
The story itself is cute, about a little boy fox named Argyle who just wants to play outside and yet the wind keeps thwarting his attempts. He tries many times, huffs, puffs and gives up. However, Mother Fox has an idea...
It isn't the story that steals the show, though. The illustrations are absolutely stunning and vivid. I could see my son just devour the story visually as well as mentally. The pictures truly kept him engaged.
Argyle Fox is a cute book, especially for a bed time read or a new reader. I would definitely recommend it.
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The story itself is cute, about a little boy fox named Argyle who just wants to play outside and yet the wind keeps thwarting his attempts. He tries many times, huffs, puffs and gives up. However, Mother Fox has an idea...
It isn't the story that steals the show, though. The illustrations are absolutely stunning and vivid. I could see my son just devour the story visually as well as mentally. The pictures truly kept him engaged.
Argyle Fox is a cute book, especially for a bed time read or a new reader. I would definitely recommend it.
- Website - Facebook - Instagram -
December 10, 2017
Argyle Fox want's to enjoy the spring day and has plans to have fun outside playing. His Mum warns him it's a bit windy but Argyle Fox is determined the wind wont ruin his fun and goes outside to play. However his card tower is blown over so he ventures back home for more things to play......a spider in a web, a pirate, even football, all to no avail as each time the wind returns to blow things away.
I love the persistence of Argyle Fox and his determination to play outside even if the wind continues to blow, I love his imagination using a variety of play things. When he finally figures out what he can play with I enjoyed seeing all of his items used again for a different reason.
Argyle Fox is a lovely book, with picturesque images that show clearly where he lives as well as his ideas of fun things to play. The images are bright, clear, and very cute. This is a quick book which is perfect for it's target age group, small enough to keep them interested but just enough to make it a short story.
Final Verdict
Argyle Fox is a lovely character in the book who not only shows persistence at a task, but also how much fun can be had with a little imagination.
I love the persistence of Argyle Fox and his determination to play outside even if the wind continues to blow, I love his imagination using a variety of play things. When he finally figures out what he can play with I enjoyed seeing all of his items used again for a different reason.
Argyle Fox is a lovely book, with picturesque images that show clearly where he lives as well as his ideas of fun things to play. The images are bright, clear, and very cute. This is a quick book which is perfect for it's target age group, small enough to keep them interested but just enough to make it a short story.
Final Verdict
Argyle Fox is a lovely character in the book who not only shows persistence at a task, but also how much fun can be had with a little imagination.
February 16, 2017
Alexander had the terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day. Now Argyle Fox has, well, the same sort of day. But he doesn't decide to move to Australia, just to never play outside again. And who can blame him? No matter what he tries to do, the wind ruins it. He can't build a house of cards. He can't pretend he's a spider in a web. He can't do anything fun, so he is "never playing in the wind ever, ever, EVER again!" But when his mother encourages him to give it some thought and come up with something that he could play on a windy day, "Huzzah!"
Argyle is determined, spirited, and very imaginative in his games. He just needs to take the weather conditions into account. I'm sure many readers know how it feels to have the wind or some other outside force seem to wreck all the best plans. Letourneau's illustrations bring this frustrated little fox to whimsical life. Whether he is role playing in armor outside a cardboard castle, sporting a newspaper pirate hat and carrying a skull and crossbones flag, or looking dapper in his knee socks and soccer cleats, he gives all his favorite games a try. And when he sits down to think, I love the meditative pose with his legs crossed and his eyes closed.
This is a character who does not believe in half measures. His persistence and ability to overcome the obstacle that the wind poses to his outdoor fun will be an inspiration to readers of all ages. Highly recommended!
I read an e-book provided by the publisher through NetGalley (after seeing a copy at ALAMW17 and falling in love with the adorable little fox).
Argyle is determined, spirited, and very imaginative in his games. He just needs to take the weather conditions into account. I'm sure many readers know how it feels to have the wind or some other outside force seem to wreck all the best plans. Letourneau's illustrations bring this frustrated little fox to whimsical life. Whether he is role playing in armor outside a cardboard castle, sporting a newspaper pirate hat and carrying a skull and crossbones flag, or looking dapper in his knee socks and soccer cleats, he gives all his favorite games a try. And when he sits down to think, I love the meditative pose with his legs crossed and his eyes closed.
This is a character who does not believe in half measures. His persistence and ability to overcome the obstacle that the wind poses to his outdoor fun will be an inspiration to readers of all ages. Highly recommended!
I read an e-book provided by the publisher through NetGalley (after seeing a copy at ALAMW17 and falling in love with the adorable little fox).
February 10, 2017
Callie's Kid Review: 5 stars. I would recommend it to my friends. The reading level was perfect for me. I thought the pictures were pretty. I thought the story was great because of how clever the fox was in making a kite and all those other things he did even if the wind didn't let him do it. I don't know why he couldn't do the other things in the wind except the cards - because they would fly away. How does a soccer ball fly away? My favorite part was when he decorated his kite. I hope my mom buys this book.
My Mommy Review: ARGYLE FOX by Marie Letourneau is a wonderful read that I can't wait to buy and add to my favorites library for the kids. The story is about a little fox that is trying to play outside but everything he tries is ruined by the wind. Will the little fox prevail and find something fun or will he give up and just stay inside? It's a good lesson for children to keep on trying and enjoy the playfullness that comes with trying and pretending. The text of the story is age appropriate for a 1st grader and up to read. My son liked listening to it as well as a toddler . The illustrations are playful and will give the adult reading many prompts to engage their audience with questions like "what would you make for the wind?" or "what costume would you wear" when he puts on the spider costume.
I received an ARC of this novel from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
My Mommy Review: ARGYLE FOX by Marie Letourneau is a wonderful read that I can't wait to buy and add to my favorites library for the kids. The story is about a little fox that is trying to play outside but everything he tries is ruined by the wind. Will the little fox prevail and find something fun or will he give up and just stay inside? It's a good lesson for children to keep on trying and enjoy the playfullness that comes with trying and pretending. The text of the story is age appropriate for a 1st grader and up to read. My son liked listening to it as well as a toddler . The illustrations are playful and will give the adult reading many prompts to engage their audience with questions like "what would you make for the wind?" or "what costume would you wear" when he puts on the spider costume.
I received an ARC of this novel from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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