Common Sense Media Review
By Regan McMahon
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Wacky art helps make childlike song a great read for kids.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 4+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
WHAT DOES THE FOX SAY? is a picture book version of the lyrics to the catchy pop song and music video by Norwegian pop duo Ylvis. YouTube named \"The Fox (What Does the Fox Say?)\" its Top Video of 2013, as it received more than 200 million global views. The basic question the song poses is, in fact, intriguing. As all little kids know, cats say \"meow\" and cows say \"moo,\" but what does the fox say?
Is It Any Good?
Without the catchy melody and pulsing beat of the Ylvis song, you might think the words would fall flat on the page, but the wacky, stylized art keeps things lively and engaging. Antic scenes of different animals busy at play and mischief give kids lots to look at, point out, and talk about. The distinctive palette of burnt orange, gray, cream, and tan makes the book stand out as well.
Kids also will enjoy, with or without the music, trying out the suggested possibilities of what the fox says, such as, "Jacha-chacha-chacha-chow!" and "Wa-pa-pa-pa-pa-pa-pow!" It should make for a rousing read-aloud.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the sounds animals make. What other sounds can you think of besides the ones mentioned in the book (and the song)?
If you've heard the song or watched the video, how does the book compare? Which do you like better?
What sound do you think the fox makes?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Svein Nyhus
- Genre : Picture Book
- Topics : Animals ( Wild Animals ) , Arts ( Music and Sing-Along )
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Simon & Schuster
- Publication date : December 10, 2013
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 4 - 8
- Number of pages : 32
- Available on : Nook, Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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