A young boy named Peter doesn't have an ordinary best friend. Most people befriend humans and dogs, but this boy was inseparable with his pet fox, Pax. Pax was not only a very intelligent and playful animal, but he was also super keen on picking up scents and emotions. He knew something was amiss, but he didn't quite know why his boy wouldn't stop crying. Peter must say goodbye to his furry companion. With his mother passed away and his father called to war, Peter must now live with his disgruntled grandfather. Pax can't come with, but Pax also isn't used to the outdoors, and he doesn't understand why his young friend would leave him in the woods alone. Pax learns the way of the forest while Peter tries to live at peace with his grandfather for the next six months, both missing each other dearly.
This engaging and emotional read alternates between a 2nd person view of the separated lives of Pax and Peter. Peter adjusts to a new school and faces the struggles of war. Pax reconnects with family in the forest, though he desires to be reconnected with his human friend. Each chapter begins with a silhouette of either a fox or a boy, depicting which character the chapter will be about. 276 pgs, pb. ~ Brianna
From bestselling and award-winning author Sara Pennypacker comes a beautifully wrought, utterly compelling novel about the powerful relationship between a boy and his fox. Pax is destined to become a classic, beloved for generations to come.
Pax and Peter have been inseparable ever since Peter rescued him as a kit. But one day, the unimaginable happens: Peter's dad enlists in the military and makes him return the fox to the wild.
At his grandfather's house, three hundred miles away from home, Peter knows he isn't where he should be—with Pax. He strikes out on his own despite the encroaching war, spurred by love, loyalty, and grief, to be reunited with his fox.
Meanwhile Pax, steadfastly waiting for his boy, embarks on adventures and discoveries of his own. . . .
Pax is a wonderful choice for independent reading, sharing in the classroom, homeschooling, and book groups.
Recommended by a learning specialist from our charter, and my daughter loves foxes.