Lachie is excited about auditions for a school play. Especially because it is to be one of Roald Dahl’s stories – Fantastic Mr Fox.

Even though he hasn’t acted before and lots of other children in his class want the part of Mister Fox, Lachie believes he is perfect for it. He practises his Mr Fox lines and is excited at his chances, but his big brother Frank tells him he needs to stand out from his competition. After all, everyone will be practising their lines.

Frank comes up with a wonderful idea. A tail! But this can’t be just any old tail. It has to be just like in Roald Dahl’s famous story. It gets shot off!

While they build this prop for his audition, Lachie learns about other things he may need. Initiative, and resourcefulness. He’s certain he’ll get the part. At least until he comes across some lines he’s not happy with.

Everyone gets caught up in the play. Lachie’s lines fill their house and when his audition doesn’t go to plan he becomes another character. Bean is the opposite of Mr. Fox and Lachie is quick to take over his mean, grouchy, dirty character’s personality.

The night of the play arrives and all is going well. At least until Lachie spots something that shouldn’t be on stage. In fact it could even be deadly!

Quick Review

All young lovers of Roald Dahl’s wonderful story – Fantastic Mr Fox, will enjoy this junior novel. With the excitement of a coming play, auditions, rehearsals and a costume / prop design in the mix, this story will capture young readers who can identify with family, older siblings and school events.

Black and white illustrations by Lisa Allen are sprinkled through the large, clear text. At only 60 pages, this junior novel is also perfect for capable but reluctant readers.

Author – Mary-anne Scott

Age – 7+

More Books by Mary-anne Scott

(School Play, Roald Dahl, Audtion, Rehearsal, Bottlebrush, Character study, Anaphylactic shock, Acting, Initiative)