The Fox Jumps Over the Parson's Gate

A lively old hunting song springs to life in this playful picture book, where a fox races over the parson’s gate with a pack of hounds close behind. Horn calls, wedding preparations, soldiers, tavern cheer, and the singer’s thoughts of Nancy tumble together in a rollicking rhyme full of repeated refrains and hearty “Tally-ho!” cries.

The story’s simple verses invite listeners to join in, while comic scenes and quick changes of action give every stanza a mischievous sense of movement. A parson abandons his ceremony, hunters pursue their quarry, and a humble soldier earns a warm defense, all within a cheerful countryside adventure. Ideal for families, it combines traditional song, gentle absurdity, and vividly imagined characters in a short, rhythmic entertainment that rewards repeated listening.