Pax, Journey Home

This poignant sequel to "Pax" continues the story of Peter, a boy grappling with profound loss and guilt after the war, and his beloved fox, Pax, who is now a father protecting his own kits. Both characters embark on separate, challenging journeys: Peter with the "Water Warriors" to heal the land, and Pax seeking help for a sick kit. The narrative beautifully explores themes of grief, loneliness, resilience, and the enduring power of love and chosen family. It's ideal for middle-grade readers aged 10-14, offering a deeply emotional and hopeful story about healing from trauma and finding belonging. Parents should be prepared for discussions around loss and the aftermath of conflict, balanced by strong messages of empathy and perseverance.

It’s been a year since Peter and his pet fox, Pax, have seen each other. Once inseparable, they now lead very different lives. Pax and his mate, Bristle, have welcomed a litter of kits they must protect in a dangerous world. Meanwhile Peter—newly orphaned after the war, racked with guilt and loneliness—leaves his adopted home with Vola to join the Water Warriors, a group of people determined to heal the land from the scars of the war. When one of Pax's kits falls desperately ill, he turns to the one human he knows he can trust. And no matter how hard Peter tries to harden his broken heart, love keeps finding a way in. Now both boy and fox find themselves on journeys toward home, healing—and each other, once again.