Tricky Journeys 3: Tricky Fox Tales

By: Chris Schweizer
Illustrated by: Shelli Paroline
Publisher: Graphic Universe
Publication Date: July 2011
Reviewed by: Deb Fowler
Reviewed by: Deb Fowler
Review Date: January 2012

There are many "Tricky Journeys" that you can take in this book, and every one of them can be different depending on which path you take. Fox enjoyed going shopping at the marketplace. An old crane had a display of beads Fox was looking at when all of a sudden she found herself on the ground. When Crane's table collapsed, Fox had a string of beads around her ear and a mink in her lap. Needless to say, Fox was a little miffed at the mink, but all was forgiven when she found out what really happened.

Mink told Fox that a bully had thrown him and added that "She picks up and throws ANYONE who doesn't give her what she wants." When Fox pulled the beads off her ear and looked across the marketplace she saw none other than cousin Roxy. Mink was worried that Fox would bully him too because Roxy was "giving foxes a bad reputation." Something had to be done to stop her, but what could Fox do? Mmmmm! She could try asking Roxy to be nicer or she could play a trick on her. Which method would she choose and what would happen?

Depending on which path the young reader chooses, the outcome of the story can vary widely. In once instance both Roxy and Fox get tricked themselves and in another ... well, no spoilers here! The reader may love the surprise ending they have chosen, but if not, can simply back up and take another path or start all over again. Many readers thoroughly enjoy choose-your-own-ending books and love the unique read of their own creation. The panels in this graphic novel are colorful, vibrant, and have Japanese overtones. In the back of the book is a brief historical vignette about the origin of the kitsune (foxes) who can sometimes be tricksters.

Quill says: This is a fun, tricky trickster tale about Fox, who wants cousin Roxy to stop being a bully.