Pax, Journey Home

Describe the parallels between Ben’s relationship with Astrid and Pax’s relationship with his daughter. In what ways are these relationships similar? In what ways do they differ?

Pax, Journey Home explores the tension between love and fear. How do love and fear intersect in the novel? What message does the story offer about the relationship between love and fear?

Consider Peter’s ideas about forgiveness and how those ideas change over the course of the novel. How does Peter’s perspective on forgiveness evolve from before he is reunited with Pax to after they are reunited?

Analyze the development of Peter’s character throughout the novel. Consider how he changes—for example, explore the difference between his initial response to Vola’s offer to give him land and how he feels about being a part of Vola’s community at the end of the novel.

In this novel, Pennypacker explores the idea of family from a variety of perspectives, both human and animal. What conclusions does she come to about the idea of family and found family?

Examine the role of the Water Warriors in the novel. How do their actions accurately reflect the responsibility of humans with regard to the ecological impact of wartime disasters? Do the Water Warriors seem to have a good system in place for making repairs? Why or why not?

How does forgiveness manifest in the novel, in both human and animal relationships? How do attitudes toward forgiveness differ across species? How are they similar?

Discuss the book’s exploration of grief and the grieving process. Consider how it impacts characters in different ways and the significance of specific locations to their specific grieving processes.