I got this book through Netgalley for reviewing, and boy am I happy I did.

[b:Fox Talk|131591|Talking to the Dead Kate and Maggie Fox and the Rise of Spiritualism|Barbara Weisberg|https://d202m5krfqbpi5.cloudfront.net/books/1347374435s/131591.jpg|126735] is a fantastic children's book that delves into the topic of domestication in a way that is easy for anyone to understand. They actually talk about the Russian Fox Experiment, how domestication affects not only behavior but actual genetics, and how you can assess these facts and animal intelligence for yourself.

The topic, while complex, is laid out very well and further resources are also offered throughout the book. The nature of exotic pet ownership is examined in a respectful way that acknowledges both the pros and cons and explains just why legality can come into question.

This is a book that I look forward to using someday for my own educational outreach, and is definitely one that I'll refer many people to while I work in the exotic animal field.

Five stars, no question. I'm so glad that this book came my way. :) ( )

Formatting: This book was formatted correctly, except that it didn't have any front matter (title page, copyright page, etc.).

Content: While I knew, basically, how dogs became domesticated, I didn't know that you could do the same thing to foxes. I found the information on domesticating foxes fascinating, especially in regard to how anger toward humans seems to be nature, not nurture. I also liked how the author compared dogs and foxes throughout the book so that the reader had a frame of reference from which to start about what was being talked about. I also found the reference and glossary sections to be very helpful. ( )

bookshelves: e-book, net-galley, zoology, nonfiction, published-2013, autumn-2013, sciences, dog-steals-the-show
Read on November 26, 2013

NetGalley: Ashby-BP Publishing
Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA) Members' Titles

The strapline: When you talk to a dog, does the dog talk back?

Fab dedication in this:

For my Dad, who has run out of buttons to burst, and for my Mom, who would have loved to pet the foxes

From the description: Packed with eye-popping photos, interactive material, and first-hand research, FOX TALK reveals the story of these amazing animals… and everything they’ve taught us about wolves, dogs, and communication.

What is the first thing that pops into your head when you spot this book, could it be Yltis? As it happens those bros are bringing out a board book for the kiddies in the near future: What Does the Fox Say?

Mostly concerned with explaining Belyaev's fifty years of fox research in Siberia and follow-on experimentation by other scientists this book is geared to young inquisitive minds, and is of a very engaging design.

Short, fast read however I have a feeling that most parents will not warm to the section about how to choose your own fox for a pet. ( )