Pax
#1 of 2 in Pax Series
What’s inside...
Pax is a story about a boy named Peter and his fox, Pax. When Peter's father enlists in the military, Peter is forced to abandon Pax. The novel follows both Peter and Pax on their journey to find each other during a time of war. The book is a National Book Award Longlist. Pax was only a kit when his family was killed, and “his boy” Peter rescued him from abandonment and certain death. Now the war front approaches, and when Peter’s father enlists, Peter has to move in with his grandpa. Far worse than being forced to leave home is the fact that Pax can’t go. Peter listens to his stern father—as he usually does—and throws Pax’s favorite toy soldier into the woods. When the fox runs to retrieve it, Peter and his dad get back in the car and leave him there—alone. But before Peter makes it through even one night under his grandfather’s roof, regret and duty spur him to action; he packs for a trek to get his best friend back and sneaks into the night. This is the story of Peter, Pax, and their independent struggles to return to one another against all odds. Told from the alternating viewpoints of Peter and Pax.
Character compass
Peter
Pax
Runt
Bristle
Vola
Grey
Discussion points
How do you think Peter felt when he had to leave Pax behind, and why?
What do you think Pax learned about the human world during his time away from Peter?
How do the themes of loyalty and friendship evolve throughout the story?
What changes do you notice in Peter as he goes on his journey to find Pax?
Can you think of a time when you had to make a difficult decision, like Peter did? How did you feel?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story, helping them connect personally with the characters.
Discuss the characters’ decisions and actions, asking your child what they would have done in the same situations.
Explore the setting by asking your child to imagine where Pax and Peter's adventures occur, enhancing their visual and spatial reasoning.
Focus on the resolution of the book to discuss the outcomes of the characters' choices, fostering a sense of moral reasoning and consequence in your child.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship and loyalty
Explanation: In 'Pax', the deep bond between a boy, Peter, and his fox, Pax, illustrates the unwavering loyalty and friendship they share. Despite being separated, their commitment to reunite shows the strength of their connection.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of maintaining and cherishing friendships, understanding that true friends are dependable and supportive through various challenges in life.
Example Lesson: Impact of war on nature and individuals
Explanation: The backdrop of war in 'Pax' serves as a poignant setting that showcases the disruption it brings not only to humans but also to the environment and animals. Pax’s journey highlights the struggles faced by wildlife during such conflicts.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children develop empathy towards people and animals affected by conflicts, promoting a broader understanding of peace and the consequences of war.
Example Lesson: Growth through adversity
Explanation: Throughout 'Pax', Peter undergoes significant personal growth as he navigates various challenges in his quest to find Pax. His journey is a testament to resilience and the maturing process one goes through when faced with difficulties.
Real-World Application: This teaches children that facing challenges head-on can lead to personal development and a better understanding of oneself, encouraging them to tackle their own obstacles courageously.
Example Lesson: Healing and forgiveness
Explanation: The storyline of 'Pax' provides a narrative where characters learn to forgive themselves and others, paving the way for healing and reconciliation. This is evident in how Peter deals with his past actions and feelings towards his family.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of forgiveness as a step towards healing emotional wounds, enabling them to move forward without harboring resentment or guilt.
Example Lesson: Respect for all creatures
Explanation: Peter’s journey to find Pax also illustrates a growing respect for wildlife and their habitats. His experiences demonstrate the importance of coexistence between humans and nature.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to be mindful of their environment and to treat all living beings with respect and kindness, fostering a sense of responsibility towards ecological conservation.