About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is starting to explore the world with an inquisitive eye or feels a little different from their peers. It is a whimsical, gentle mystery that celebrates the joy of observation and the beauty of unconventional friendships. The story follows Ottoline and her hairy companion, Mr Munroe, as they join a sophisticated purple fox on a nighttime tour of the city to discover its hidden wonders and solve the mystery of a heartbroken street poet. Parents will appreciate how the book validates curiosity and empathy. While the plot involves a mystery, the tone remains playful and visually stunning, making it an excellent choice for a cozy shared read or for a child who loves to pour over detailed illustrations. It models how to be a good friend and how to notice the small, magical details in everyday urban life.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The story explores themes of loneliness and sadness through a series of anonymous poems. While handled with whimsy, parents of particularly sensitive children may want to discuss how the characters use empathy to help someone feeling isolated.
Ideal Reader
A creative 7 to 9 year old who loves 'I Spy' books, detailed artwork, and stories where the characters are clever and kind rather than aggressive. Perfect for the child who keeps a 'treasure box' of found objects or a notebook of drawings.
Parent Prep
This book is a delight to read cold. Parents might want to pay close attention to the illustrations, as much of the storytelling and humor is tucked away in the detailed labels and background drawings. You may also find the book provides a potential inspiration for your child to express interest in 'secret' worlds or start their own collection of observations and notes.
Age Experience
Younger readers (7-8) will be enchanted by the animal safari and the visual gags. Older readers (9-10) will appreciate the sophisticated wit, the poetic elements, and Chris Riddell's intricate cross-hatching technique.
What Makes It Special
The unique format: it is a hybrid of a chapter book, a graphic novel, and an art book. The visual storytelling is just as important as the text, making it accessible for reluctant readers while remaining intellectually stimulating.
Read plot summary
Ottoline Brown and her best friend, the small and hairy Mr Munroe, are invited by a dapper purple fox to go on an urban safari through Big City. As they explore the nighttime streets, they encounter animals living in secret harmony with the city. Parallel to their safari, they discover a series of anonymous, sad poems posted on lampposts. The duo uses their detective skills and empathy to identify the lonely poet and help mend their broken heart through a creative community effort.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Ottoline keeps a field notebook to write down what she sees. If you went on an urban safari in our neighborhood, what are three things you would record?
2
Mr Munroe is very concerned about the anonymous poet. What does this tell us about his character and how he cares for others?
3
The Purple Fox shows Ottoline a different side of the city. Why do you think some things are only visible at night or when we look very closely?
4
How did Ottoline and Mr Munroe use the poems to figure out who the poet was and how to help them?
5
If you wanted to cheer up a friend with a broken heart, would you use a poem, a gift, or something else? Why?
