I absolutely loved this book. Yes, I know that I tend to like most books that are written from the animals point of view but this one was particularly amazing. The book alternates from Peter's and Pax's point of view in each chapter. 
 It's about a boy named Peter who raised a fox, Pax, and then has to send him back into the wild when his father has to go off to war. 
 Peter found a fox kit, raised it and named it Pax. They played together, protected one another and loved each other. When his father forces him to release Pax back into the wild Peter is devastated and vows to go back and find Pax. However Peter is sent to his grandfather's house to live while his father is off to war and it's 300 miles from the spot where they released Pax. The day after he is dropped off he packs a bag and sets off on his journey to find his friend. It's not as easy as he thought though. Before long he has a broken foot and is found on a secluded farm by a woman named Vola. He doesn't want to stay but doesn't really have a choice until his foot is healed. While there he learns a lot about himself, Vola and the world. Then he goes off to find Pax again. 
 While Peter is at Vola's farm Pax is in the forest on his own adventure. Pax doesn't know how to be a wild fox. He is scared and alone. He isn't welcomed by the local foxes and must figure out how to survive. He does his best to find food and water and to get in the good graces of a vixen called Bristle. She is reluctant to accept him because he smells of humans. Her little brother Runt trusts easily and immediately takes to Pax. So does an older fox called Gray. The foxes must live off the land and avoid the humans and the dangers they bring as they prepare for war. All the while Pax watches and waits for Peter to return. He will always love his boy. Because while other humans have been heartless and cruel, his boy has shown love and kindness. 
 Peter is a kind, empathetic and determined 12 year old boy. He will stop at nothing to find Pax. His love for Pax propels him through obstacles that he never imagined he could overcome. It is his love and perseverance that makes this book so beautiful. 
 Vola is a harden loner who lives isolated from the world around her. She has a wooden leg because she lost hers in a war. She fears that she is like a grenade because if she was able to go from a sweet girl to a soldier who kills who's to say that she isn't dangerous still. When Peter shows up on her farm her whole world changes. She has someone to take care of and to teach. She always wanted to be a teacher and Peter lets her teach him things. She has rules but as long as Peter follows them she lets him stay. She is a strong woman who is lost. Peter helps her to find herself. 
 Pax is a wonderful character. He is at first ignorant of the ways of the wild and has a hard time adapting but as time goes on he observes the other foxes and learns how to survive. He has a delicate hopeful demeanor and is always thinking of Peter returning. He is also looking for acceptance from his fellow foxes. He admires Bristle from the start and adores Runt's playfulness. 
 Bristle is strong and protective. She will do anything to keep her brother safe especially from Pax who she feels has been tainted by humans. She doesn't want him as a part of their little pack but after a while even she can see that Pax is a loyal companion. 
 Runt is adorable. He is young and playful. He looks up to Pax. He doesn't understand his sisters distrust. Runt is the epitome of childlike innocence. 
 Gray is an old fox that takes Pax under his wing after discounting him as a threat. He is old and wise. 
 This book is beautifully written. The parts written from Pax's perspective have a melodic, tranquil quality to them. The author really did her research on fox behavior which I thought was wonderful. The descriptions of how they move and act towards one another are so genuine and realistic. I work with animals and in particular wildlife so I know how they act. This was incredibly accurate. She does create more emotion based behaviors but she clearly states that in her afterword. 
 I adored this book. It was a beautiful homage to the fox. It also described the destruction of families and places by the coming of war. It was comforting and heart wrenching at times. I loved it.