Zander Stays

Every year as winter approaches, geese return south to avoid the cold and snow. Not Zander, though. Zander declares he wants to stay this year, but first he’ll have to learn how to survive the harsh winter climate. Should he do as Bear suggests and put on a thick layer of fat? Or should he snuggle up with friends like bat does? None of his furred friends seem to have the right answer for Zander, but he’s determined to make the best of a freezing situation. He just needs to find a northern animal whose winter adaptation works for him. Luckily, one such animal arrives just in the nick of time, walking on two snugly booted feet.

Celebrated illustrator Scot Ritchie brings humor and charm to Zander’s adventure, from awe-filled autumn walks along the shore to cozy winter hijinks with his new human friend, and award-winning author Maureen Fergus imbues Zander Stays with humor that is simultaneously silly and clever. An author’s note further explores how Zander’s animal friends adapt to their winter environment.