Pax

Reviewed by: Kris Zuidema - retired school librarian, Standish, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: June 8, 2016

Review

Peter, a young boy, rescues and raises a young fox he names Pax. They are inseparable. Peter's father is going off to war and forces him to return Pax to the wild. Peter is sent to live with his grandfather and is now 300 miles from where Pax was left. Pax isn't used to being alone and has much to learn. The chapters alternate between Peter and Pax telling this fable like story. It is beautifully written. Several themes are explored including friendship, loyalty, grief, war, and the environment. The black and white illustrations capture the emotional impact of the text. This wonderful book could lead to many discussions with young readers. I highly recommend this powerful and touching story.

Overall Book Score: excellent