Description: If Zander the goose wants to stay put for the winter, he'll have to brave the cold and learn from new friends to adapt. A feathered tale sure to spark a gaggle of giggles by award-winning author Maureen Fergus and acclaimed illustrator Scot Ritchie.
Brief description: Scot Ritchie is an award-winning illustrator and author with more than 60 books to his credit, including most recently Dinos Driving. His books have been translated into French, Korean, Indonesian, Polish, Finnish, Arabic and Dutch. Scot has worked with the National Film Board of Canada and has had his illustrations exhibited at the National Gallery of Canada. He lives in Vancouver, British Columbia.
Review Quotes:
Praise for Zander Stays
2024/2025 Chocolate Lily Picture Book Award Nominee
2024 Children's Book Council Best Books for Kids & Teens Selection
49th Shelf Fall 2023 "Most Anticipated Books for Young Readers" Selection
CBC Books "14 Books to Get You in the Winter Holiday Spirit 2023" Selection
CBC Books "45 Picture Books to Check Out This Fall 2023" Selection
2025 Shining Willow Finalist
"[T]he images are sure to provoke giggles... Ritchie's palette changes with the seasons, with the charming pencil, ink, and digital illustrations centering the goose and his every emotion...Readers are sure to want a goose of their own to overwinter with."--Kirkus Reviews
"Readers of all ages can enjoy Ritchie's gently playful lines and colorful renderings of the northern North American landscape and characters rendered in a style reminiscent of William Steig."--School Library Journal
"The lighthearted story provides an entertaining intro to seasonal animal adaptations, and it's a hoot to watch Zander try out the assorted suggestions. Lively, casual illustrations give playful ease to the proceedings and establish a wonderfully cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying on a chilly night. A terrific tribute to taking chances and recognizing one's own needs."--Booklist
"This charming story about an iconoclast will appeal to kids ages 4-8 who love funny animal stories. Large, clear illustrations and the amusing conversations between the animals make this a good choice for Storytime, with many opportunities for kids to chime in with predictions."--Youth Services Book Review ★ Starred Review
"A delightful and charming book....Winter-positive books are quite welcome, and this one is highly recommended for all children's collections."--CM Reviews
"The perfect book to read in the fall.... A fun story, complete with information on hibernation and adaption."--The International Educator
"Zander Stays is a cute story about stepping out of your comfort zone and taking chances....My daughter and I enjoyed this read and I loved being able to teach her more about what animals do during the winter season while we're cuddled up with a blanket."--YA Books Central
"While this tale from Ms. Fergus is rife with her signature storytelling, Scot Ritchie ups the humor at every turn with wonderfully attractive pencil, ink, and digital artwork that is fully focused on Zander. The final spread and endpapers add even more charm."--Sal's Fiction Addiction
"Laughing out loud....I love this book."--BookTime
"Zander Stays is a nicely illustrated picture book about helping others and it introduces young readers to the concepts of hibernation and migration."--Metroland Media
"Attractively illustrated."--The Winnipeg Free Press