A.N. Irons’ Heartwarming Sequel Explores the Meaning of Home Through the True Story of a Special-Needs Hornbill
July 2025 — With the release of Horton's Homecoming, the second book in the Horton Hornbill series, author and longtime zookeeper A.N. Irons invites young readers and their families to discover a heartfelt journey of belonging, family, and love beyond feathers and beaks.
Inspired by her decades of experience working with birds in some of the country’s most prestigious zoos, Irons shares the real-life story of Horton, a special-needs hornbill who now lives with the very zookeeper who raised him. This latest installment introduces readers to Horton’s extended human family and explores the timeless question: What makes a house a home?
“Growing up, I always heard my mom say we were going ‘home’ when we visited family during the holidays,” says Irons. “As a kid, I didn’t get it—our house was home. But later I realized that ‘home’ isn’t a place. It’s the people you love. I wanted Horton’s story to reflect that truth for young readers.”
Filled with vibrant illustrations and gentle storytelling, Horton's Homecoming is ideal for children ages 4 to 8, particularly those who love animals or have visited a zoo. The book also carries an important message about inclusion and care, as it portrays a bird with unique needs who thrives thanks to the dedication and compassion of those around him.
Originally from Vermont and now living in Arizona with her husband, two cats, and Horton himself, Irons brings authenticity and warmth to every page. With a BA from Smith College and an MA from George Mason University, she combines academic expertise with hands-on animal care experience to create books that are both educational and emotionally resonant.
Whether you’re a young reader, an animal lover, or simply someone who understands that “home” is where the heart is, Horton’s story will leave a lasting impression.
