Thanks to WorthyKids for this review copy through a LibraryThing GiveAway. This was an intriguing concept looking at bitterness and isolation and the effect it can have when held too firmly for too long. And yet, warmth, acceptance and friendship can trim away and lighten such a burden. Unfortunately, this reviewer found the image of the tree growing from the fox's back (not to mention its removal) unsettling. Readers not hindered by this reaction are sure to find a moving fable that is well worth the investment. 3 1/2 stars.
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Wonderful illustrations and very imaginative but lacking in depth. ( )

This story reminds me of the style of Aesop's Fables... It's a bit odd in parts (specifically the tree), but overall the message is very clear. The art is quite beautiful too, and there are some clever things contained in the images (a hedgehog as a hairbrush!) I think this will be a good story for young readers, especially those struggling with making friends at school.

I received this book in an EarlyReviewers giveaway on LibraryThing - my thanks to the publisher. ( )

This reminded me of a fable. It had such a good message about friendship. I liked that it was unique and not like so many other stories that have a similar plot told in a similar way. It creatively shows children that they need to be a friend to have friends. The illustrations were adorable and well done also. Definitely a book I'll read to the children in my life. ( )

(Full disclosure: I received a free copy of this book for review through LibraryThing's Early Reviewers program.)

-- 3.5 stars --

BrindleFox is a grumpy animal with a heart of stone. He shows no empathy or kindness, nor does he accept it. He has no friends and turns away visitors. With no reason to clean his house, it falls into disrepair. Ivy grows up the walls and onto BrindleFox. In a time, a sapling spouts on his back and turns into a tree. A cheeky heron is drawn to its branches - and BrindleFox. Can her persistence smooth his prickly demeanor?

A simple message - to have a friend, one must be a friend - is couched in Sandford's quaint, old timey illustrations, which would indeed be at home in an early edition of Grimm's Fairy Tales. ( )