A magical-realist adventure following two boys on a daring night-time quest, perfect for fans of quirky graphic novels.

Winner of the 2019 Booklist Editor's Choice, Kirkus Reviews Best Books of the Year, and Parents Magazine Best Children's Books of the Year.

On the night of the annual Autumn Equinox Festival, the town gathers to float paper lanterns down the river. Legend says they'll soar off to the Milky Way and turn into brilliant stars, but could that be true? This year, Ben and his classmates make a pact to find out, with two rules: No one turns for home. No one looks back.

Together, Ben and Nathaniel, the quirky kid who doesn't seem to fit in, travel farther than anyone has gone before. Down a winding road full of magic, wonder, unexpected friendship... and a talking bear.

Join them on an astonishing journey in This Was Our Pact, a whimsical graphic novel perfect for middle-grade readers and anyone who believes in the power of friendship and wonder.