Basho and the Fox

Written by Tim J Myers · Illustrated by Oki S. Han

A poet faces a cunning fox's haiku challenge for a sweet prize.

4.3 Goodreads · 101 ratings

32 pages· 1,098 words· Est. 9 min read-aloud· AD670L

$15.95Save 6%

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Bookroo's summary

In 1600s Japan, the renowned poet Basho faces an unexpected challenge from a clever fox. Tasked with crafting a haiku that is simply 'good,' Basho's confidence wavers as he competes for the prize of sweet cherries. As the contest unfolds, Basho learns that not everything is as it seems, and humility may be his greatest lesson. Will Basho's poetic prowess prevail, or will the fox outwit him? This tale, enriched with delicate watercolors, transports readers to feudal Japan, blending mischief and wisdom in a timeless poetic duel.

From the publisher

There are important lessons to be learned, even by proud poets, in this innovative tale of a fox who thinks he’s a great poet and a great poet who thinks he can outdo a fox! It is the 1600s in Japan. Basho is writing the lovely haiku for which he is famous to this day. Given three chances by the fox, he must write a poem that “needn’t be great—only good.” Confident of his skill, he’s sure he can win the challenge and its prize, the sweet cherries from the tree near his hut. But not all is what it seems as a newly humble Basho discovers! Delicate watercolors convey a truly Eastern sensibility that takes young readers back in time to feudal Japan while their playful perspectives reinforce the mischievous tone of the text.

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