Zander Stays - by Maureen Fergus

About the Book

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. Now available as a board book!

Book Synopsis

Zander the goose is trying something new this winter. He is not going to go south. Zander is going to stay! Now available as a board book!

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.

In Zander Stays, 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. Award-winning author Maureen Fergus imbues Zander Stays with humour that is simultaneously silly and clever. An author's note further explores how Zander's animal friends adapt to their winter environment.

"[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

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