In Fantastic Mr. Fox by Roald Dahl, the clever Mr. Fox and his animal friends outsmart three cruel farmers—Boggis, Bunce, and Bean—by stealing from their well-guarded farms to feed their families, highlighting themes of intelligence, familial bonds, and the conflict between humans and the natural world. The story includes instances of violence and peril.

Roald Dahl's Fantastic Mr Fox is praised for its charming storytelling, witty dialogue, and memorable characters, appealing to both children and adults. Critics appreciate its clever plot and engaging illustrations. However, some find the story's moral implications questionable. Overall, it's celebrated for its imaginative and delightful narrative.

Fans of Fantastic Mr. Fox by Roald Dahl are typically young readers aged 8-12 who love cleverly plotted adventures with a mix of humor and wit. They would also enjoy Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White and The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame for their whimsical tales of resourceful animal protagonists.

Adventurous / Humorous / Fantastical / Suspenseful / Playful

- Fantastic Mr. Fox was first published in 1970 and has since been adapted into a 2009 stop-motion animated film directed by Wes Anderson, which brought the story to a new generation and format. 
- Roald Dahl's writing style in Fantastic Mr. Fox was inspired by his love for traditional storytelling and fables, often implementing lessons on cunning and resourcefulness. 
- The book reflects Dahl’s rural experiences from his time living in the English countryside, where he was surrounded by wildlife and nature, elements that prominently feature in the story.

Roald Dahl

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Teaching Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore Fantastic Mr Fox and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Fantastic Mr Fox Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-6

Fantastic Mr Fox Chapters 1-6 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 7-12

Fantastic Mr Fox Chapters 7-12 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 13-18

Fantastic Mr Fox Chapters 13-18 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Fantastic Mr Fox Character Analysis

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Themes

Fantastic Mr Fox Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Fantastic Mr Fox Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Fantastic Mr Fox Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Fantastic Mr Fox Essay Topics

Introduction

Fantastic Mr Fox Teacher Introduction

Before Reading

Fantastic Mr Fox Before Reading

During Reading

Fantastic Mr Fox During Reading

After Reading

Fantastic Mr Fox After Reading

Fantastic Mr Fox

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Fantastic Mr Fox?

Reading Age

Book Details