The Tail That Told the Truth
Jory Perry
Independently Published (2025)
ISBN: 979-8293955961
Reviewed by Susan Violante for Reader Views (12/2025)
The Tail That Told the Truth: A Tale About Telling the Truth by Jory Perry is the story of a clever little fox who sometimes chooses to lie. His name is Felix, and he is quick in body and mind. He always came up quickly with a good excuse for not completing his chores and even lied to his mother when he disobeyed. But one day, something unexpected happened. His tail began telling the truth, and Felix felt exposed. What will he do?
Jory Perry presents early readers with a cute, fun story to read. His narrative voice is simple and flows appropriately in the story with its character, as well as within the reader’s target age. Kids will love Felix as he is so relatable. The story’s different situations that Felix gets into will feel familiar to kids, and hence, they will have no problem understanding how Felix feels and struggles with lying or telling the truth.
The message of the book is simple and bold. Truth is always the best idea! I also found the illustrations adorable! But more than that, they are effective in making sure the message is conveyed while readers are also entertained.
The copy of The Tail That Told the Truth I reviewed is a colorful paperback format with oversized font. The big front and the quality of the paper make it perfect also for pre-school kids to gaze upon the beautiful illustrations. Great for parents to read to them while they handle the book, exploring the different animals within. I read it to my 2-year-old grandson, aka “my little monster,” while he held it and turned pages, and the book survived with not even a small page tear!
I love this picture book and now keep it in my library to revisit with my grandson when he visits. Overall, The Tail That Told the Truth: A Tale About Telling the Truth by Jory Perry is a well-written and produced picture book with a serious message for kids, because it is never too early to learn that being truthful is a good thing. But it is also a book that kids will enjoy revisiting, as Felix captivates them with his clever charm and mischievousness, providing them with a little adventure and some wisdom. A Five-Star Must-read or gift book!
At a Glance: A children’s picture book about an imaginative young fox whose lies suddenly become impossible to hide when his tail reveals the truth. A gentle, humorous story that encourages honesty through playful storytelling and engaging illustrations.
Best for Readers Who Enjoy: picture books about honesty, books that teach life lessons, animal characters, read-aloud stories, preschool and early elementary readers, colorful illustrated books, social-emotional learning, stories about telling the truth, family reading