Pax by Sara Pennypacker reviewed by Caitlyn Mullen

     Pax, by Sara Pennypacker, is the story of a boy and a fox. But on a deeper level, it is also about the choices we make when we love someone, whether or not that someone is a human or an animal. Pax is a fox, discovered and rescued when he is a kit, by a boy named Peter. A deep love and attachment develop between the two of them until one day when Peter's dad forces Peter to release Pax back into the wild. The rest of the novel is largely about the two of them trying to find one another again. However, what is most important is not their search to relocate each other, but what each learns about himself along the way.
     The setting of Pax is purposely vague. Readers are uncertain of the exact location or year that the story takes place because neither is ever clearly expressed. The author keeps this information ambiguous in order to create a feeling of universality and timelessness in the book, so readers know this could be happening anywhere at any time. One thing readers know for sure, however, is that a war is looming in the background throughout the novel, creating in both the novel's characters, and in its readers, feelings of nervousness, uncertainty, and fear.
     Helped along the way by memorable characters, human and animal, Pax and Peter face a number of challenges as well as experience some profound moments of joy. These challenges and these moments of joy help Pax and Peter to grow and to change in ways that will alter their lives forever. And readers will learn that sometimes love is about letting go, not holding on.
     Though not always easy to read, I highly recommend Pax. Anyone with a love of or interest in animals, humanity, adventure, and/or adversity will appreciate this novel. I give it a 5-star rating.