Otter, Mole, Fox and Hare live happily together, each responsible for some aspect of the work that families share. Then Fox becomes ill and dies. Otter, Mole and Hare are steeped in sadness. “Fox’s family missed him so much. They felt lost without him.” They grieve throughout the winter. In spring, when Squirrel comes to visit, she tries to comfort them without success, until she begins to remember the funny things she doesn’t miss about Fox—like his awful cooking and his disastrous attempts to fix things. Alan Durant acknowledges the importance of time, laughter, and above all, memories, in a picture book about death—and life, and love—for young children. Highly Commended, 2005 Charlotte Zolotow Award (Ages 3–6)

When Fox dies, Mole, Hare, and Otter are devastated. They feel they will never get over their great sadness. How can life go on without him? Then one day Squirrel comes to visit. She reminds Fox's family of all the funny things he used to do. And as the friends share dinner and tell stories, they realize at last that in their hearts and memories, Foxis still with them, and he will be--always and forever.

With thoughtful, delicate illustrations by acclaimed artist Debi Gliori, this gentle story is just right for anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one.