Trick a Tracker

Michael Foreman's 'Trick a Tracker' is a delightful and thought-provoking short chapter book that centers on a community of forest animals facing the threat of hunters. Rather than focusing on fear, the narrative quickly shifts to the animals' collective ingenuity as they brainstorm and build a device to disguise their tracks. The book handles the sensitive topic of hunting by presenting it as an external challenge that the animals must overcome through wit and cooperation, rather than dwelling on explicit danger or violence. The emotional arc is one of initial concern quickly transitioning to hopeful determination and ultimately, triumph. This book is specifically for children who enjoy animal stories, problem-solving narratives, and tales of teamwork. A parent might reach for this when their child is exploring themes of community, creativity, or the natural world, or simply looking for an engaging story with a positive message. Parents should preview the concept of hunting, explaining that the book focuses on the animals' cleverness in avoiding it, not on the act itself. Younger children (4-6) will enjoy it as a read-aloud, appreciating the visual aspects of the 'ingenious device' and the collective effort. Older children (7-11) can read it independently and engage more deeply with the themes of strategy and justice. What sets this book apart is its emphasis on proactive, creative problem-solving by the animals themselves, offering a refreshing take on animal protection stories that often focus on human intervention or simple escape.