Daring to be different, this goose chose to stay in the snow for winter

In her new picture book Zander Stays, prolific Winnipeg author Maureen Fergus shares a heartwarming story about a goose that tries something different: he stays behind when his flock migrates south for the winter.

“I have tremendous admiration for people who dare to be different – for those who choose the road less travelled because they believe that choice will allow them to live their best, most authentic life. It is so much easier to take the safe path and do what is expected of you,” explains Fergus.

Daring to be different can come with its own difficulties. In Zander’s case, he is left without his community, without protection from the elements, and without any knowledge of how to survive in winter. It is in navigating those challenges that this book really shines, with themes focused on asking others for help, listening to what feels right for you, and persisting in the face of adversity.

“I chose those themes because they fit with the story, and because they are among the guiding principles of my life,” says Fergus. “Ask for help because none of us has all the answers. Listen to your body, heart, and mind, and act accordingly. Persevere because the alternative is giving up.

“And if the best you can do on some days is to simply put one foot in front of the other? Give yourself a hug AND a pat on the back because you are a superhero.”

Alongside its strong message for young readers, Zander Stays is also a humorous read thanks to Scot Ritchie’s vibrant illustrations.

“I was lucky with the subject,” says Ritchie. “Geese are already a bit silly looking so it’s not difficult to play in the art and add humour to an already funny story.”

Given that both the author and artist are Canadian, it might be surprising that Zander isn’t a Canada goose, but Ritchie felt a snow goose was a better fit for the illustrations.

“[I] thought a white goose would work best because it would be white on the snow. That doesn’t [sound] quite right at first, but a black goose would have too much contrast and white is seldom pure white so there’s opportunity to add colour and nuance,” he explains.

This skilful use of colour is obvious in the snowy white landscapes as well as Ritchie’s cozy depictions of a home.

“I used to live in Toronto and going to cottage country was a regular pastime there. I remember cottages I went to that were rustic and cozy, in the summer or winter,” the now Vancouver-based illustrator says. “I also wanted to use the colour to make a clear contrast between the blues and whites of cold winter and the warmth of home.”

Like Fergus, Ritchie hopes that this warm and playful story inspires readers to take chances and make the most of life.

“The story is about trying new things and helping each other, so I hope young (and old) readers will come away thinking about that.”