Over the past 8 years I’ve read quite a few
Magic Tree House books with our kids. They sometimes pretended to be Jack and Annie and go on their own adventures. But, as happens, schedules fill up, and these moments become memories. While I read to our kids daily, it has been awhile since a book or series changed our lives like the Magic Tree House books.
For Easter I gave our son the book, Pax. I was drawn to Pax because it dealt with topics not typically discussed in children’s books, war and death. And many reviews talked about children and adults both enjoying the book.
I fell in love with Pax. I loved reading Pax aloud to our kids. And I smiled whenever they asked for another chapter. I just didn’t want to put the book down. Would Peter find his pet fox?
While reading the story, the kids kept commenting that their grandfather would enjoy various parts of Pax. He grew up on a farm, enjoyed being in the woods, and appreciates wildlife. When we were halfway through the book I bought my dad a copy. Although Pax is a children’s book, I found myself enjoying it as much, if not more than, our kids. I thought my dad too would similarly appreciate it, especially when he was stuck at home.
Once we finished the book, my son asked to send a copy to his great grandma. She lives on a farm and he thought she would enjoy the story too. So we sent a copy to both of his great grandmothers.
This week our son and I are waiting for my mom and my grandmothers to finish reading the story. My son and I are researching foxes and we are planning to draw our own pictures about Pax’s adventure. I’m excited to chat with our relatives about the book as soon as they all finish it.
When I bought Pax I never expected to enjoy the book so much. And I never expected it to be a way to bond with our relatives during this challenging time. I’m so thankful that I found Pax for our family to enjoy together this year. And I can’t wait to hear my parents and grandparents’ reactions to it.
