Inspired by the true friendship between a little boy named Fox and his beloved chicken, Polly, A Place to Belong is a heartwarming picture book about finding friendship where you least expect it. Fox and Polly's story reminds children that they are worthy of love, acceptance, and a place to be free to be themselves.

Several years ago, a remarkable friendship grew between a little boy with autism named Fox and a White Leghorn chicken named Polly. What started as a boy with falling in love with a fluffy white chick became a friendship that brought comfort, confidence, and so much joy.

Inspired by their true story, A Place to Belong follows Fox and Polly through everyday adventures, difficult moments, and the quiet companionship that helped Fox discover he was loved exactly as he was.

We hope children see a little of themselves in these pages and families come away with a deeper appreciation for the unique ways children experience and connect with the world.

"A touching and uplifting read that celebrates neurodiversity and the transformative power of authentic connection." — Stacey Hosking, Clinical Psychologist

Fox Winstone is the real-life inspiration behind A Place to Belong. As a child with autism, he has taught his family and friends that every child has their own strengths and their own way of experiencing the world. 

Fox is proud to share his story. He hopes it reminds children they are never alone, that their differences are worth celebrating, and that friendship can be found in the most unexpected places.

Polly was a beautiful White Leghorn chicken who loved following Fox on adventures, sharing treats, basking in the sunshine, and sneaking into the house whenever she had the chance. 

Over seven wonderful years, Polly became one of Fox's closest companions and a cherished member of our family. Although Polly has since passed away, her story lives on. We hope every child who meets Polly is reminded that everyone deserves a place to belong. 

Polly was featured as "Pet of the Year" in the first Downhome Magazine Pet of the Year contest! Check out the article here!

"Maybe we all have a lesson to learn from Fox and Polly's story." — Lisele Lindsay, Fox's Kindergarten Teacher

Jillian Winstone is a children's author from rural Manitoba, where she lives with her husband, three children, and a lively collection of farm animals.

Inspired by Fox and Polly's remarkable friendship, Jillian wrote A Place to Belong to encourage empathy and help families understand that every child experiences the world in their own way.

She hopes this story reminds children (and the grown-ups who love them) that kindness and acceptance can change a life.

Lauren Austin is the illustrator behind Lost in Illustrating Ltd, a UK-based studio specialising in children's books, educational resources, and whimsical character design. A former teacher with eight years of classroom experience, Lauren combines storytelling, education, and illustration to create engaging books that children and families love. Her work has been featured in picture books for authors around the world, with a focus on warmth, personality, and expressive characters.

We're so excited to share Fox and Polly's story with other families.

Bringing a children's book to life takes a team. Your support will help us complete the illustrations, print beautiful hardcover books, and put this story into the hands of children and families who may see a little of themselves in Fox.

By backing this project, you're not just pre-ordering a book, you're helping make it possible.

Thank you for believing in Fox and Polly, and for helping us share their story.

Hardcover or softcover 8x10" portrait book on 128gsm matte paper. We'll have examples of what the book will look like in our updates once we get proofs!

Canada: $6 flat shipping, untracked
Multiple copies: calculate separately / parcel shipping
USA: To be determined. Likely using media mail!

We’re planning to send the book to print in October or November 2026, with fulfillment beginning as soon as the finished copies are in hand. We expect books to begin arriving with backers in December 2026.

As with any print project, production and shipping timelines can shift, so this estimate includes a little breathing room for unexpected delays. We’ll keep backers updated throughout printing and fulfillment.

This children's book is made without the use of generative AI. All writing and art is human made!