45 pages 1 hour read

Roald Dahl

Fantastic Mr Fox

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1970

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Introduction

Teacher Introduction

Fantastic Mr. Fox

  • Genre: Fiction; Children’s Literature; Fantasy
  • Originally Published: 1970
  • Reading Level/Interest: Lexile 600L; Grades 2-5
  • Structure/Length: Approximately 112 pages; approximately 1 hour and 16 minutes on audiobook
  • Protagonist/Central Conflict: Mr. Fox, the protagonist, is a clever and resourceful fox who steals food from three wealthy, cruel farmers—Boggis, Bunce, and Bean—to feed his family. The central conflict arises as the farmers unite in a vengeful, obsessive attempt to capture and kill Mr. Fox, leading him to devise a plan not only to save his family but also to ensure food for all his animal friends.
  • Potential Sensitivity Issues: Themes of hunting and survival; mild peril; depiction of antagonism between humans and animals

Roald Dahl, Author

  • Bio: Born in 1916; died in 1990; British novelist, short story writer, poet, and screenwriter; one of the world’s most beloved children’s authors; known for his wit, dark humor, and imaginative plots, often featuring children overcoming villainous adults.
  • Other Works: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (1964); Matilda (1988); The BFG (1982); The Witches (1983)

CENTRAL THEMES connected and noted throughout this Teaching Guide:

  • Greed and Hubris Will Be Punished
  • The Triumph of the Underdog
  • The Importance of Family and Friendship

STUDY OBJECTIVES: In accomplishing the components of this Teaching Guide, students will: