Children's Picture Books

The Meeting (Mr. Badger and Mrs. Fox)

By: Brigitte Luciani
Publisher: Graphic Universe
Publication Date: April 2010
ISBN: 978-0761356257
Reviewed by: Deb Fowler
Review Date: May 27, 2010

Bristle and Grub, two young badgers, argued and fought all the way home when their father called them to dinner. They were still going at it when their father placed their dinner on the table. As a matter of fact, their little sister Berry learned to say her very first words because of their bickering. "Did too!" Papa Badger picked her up and cuddled her as the boys continued to argue. "You cheated!" "Did too!" "Did not!" While they were arguing they heard someone at the door and they had to run and hide. It was a Mama fox and her little girl, Ginger.

They were looking for a burrow because theirs had been destroyed. The children didn't like each other much at all, but their parents, oddly enough, began to enjoy each other's company. Ginger and her mother were going to spend the night, something that the boys thought was totally YUK! Papa and Ginger's mother began to get acquainted. Mama fox learned that Papa had lost his wife while Papa learned that Mama fox had separated from her husband. Foxes and badgers simply did not mix according to the children and something would have to be done to stop it. Were they going to be able to sabotage the relationship between their parents or was it going to be too late?

This graphic novel about the creation of a blended fox and badger family would be a nice intro for those considering one. I liked the very realistic tone this book had. For example, when the children bickered any parent with two or more children will chuckle at their antics. Of course children who argue with their siblings will also be able to relate. The introduction of an additional, unwelcome sibling is dealt with in a tasteful and realistic manner.

Quill says: The story would be of interest to most children, but especially those who will be entering a new phase of life with a stepparent and a new sibling or siblings.