Those Pesky Rabbits by Ciara
Flood (Koala Books for Scholastic)
HB
RRP $24.99
ISBN
978-1-74276-144-2
Reviewed by Jenny Heslop
Bear was perfectly happy living by himself in
the middle of nowhere. Then one day a family of rabbits built a house and moved
in next door. Those Pesky Rabbits is a fun story about a grumpy bear and
his new neighbours who constantly want to borrow, share, and include him in
their activities and lives. All Bear wants is to be left alone. Or does he?
This thoroughly enjoyable picture book shows
the power of kindness, community, consideration for others and generosity of
spirit.
A nice sense of rhythm is created with the
repetitive nature of the story - the knock, knock of the rabbits at the door and the bear’s
grumpy answers - make the story just right for preschool aged children
and enjoyable for their adult readers. There is a wonderful echo of the beginning
in the ending. It is the same yet completely different, giving a real sense of
closure.
The illustrations are gorgeous and give
fabulous characteristics to the animal's personalities. They also provide much
to look at - follow the journey of the mouse throughout the pictures.
Those Pesky Rabbits has a lovely and important message, and is
told in a gentle, amusing way. Skilfully and entertainingly written, this
picture book will be a hit with young children. The last line may well become a
phrase children say with relish at the end of the story each and every time
this picture book is read to them.
This is an impressive debut from
author-illustrator Ciara Flood.
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