you know. A wolf could not
hide in it."
"But if it's a wolf who knows
how to hide? A wolf who knows
how to stay out of sight?"
"Even if a wolf was hiding it that
woods, he could not come here."
"How can you be sure?"
What a hoot this book is! I can't wait to read it to Sicily and Chelsea on FaceTime in the near future. I will be sharing it in workshops and classrooms this fall as well. It is a fabulous book to read aloud.
You will know the fear by taking a careful look at the cover. It's dark and a bit scary outside the bedroom window. The tiny rabbit is already in bed. Mom is tucking her in, and she has questions. She wants assurance that the wolf will not come. Her mother patiently provides a cover and a soothing response. The child carefully listens, and follows up with another probing question. Are all the wolves gone? Mom offers the opinion that there may be some, but very few. What about those few?
For every fearful question, Mom has a clearly thought-out answer. It's just not enough to assuage all concern. On they go; one question, one answer. All meant to alleviate the fear that is ever-present. Mom never leaves the room. She continues with her comforting, and her patience. When the final question has been asked, the final reassurance given, and a goodnight kiss bestowed, it's lights out and goodnight.
Wait! What is that knocking? The little one's quick rush to the door provides a most perfect ending.
The conversation between mother and child is perfect; the humorous cartoon illustrations add a layered story of their own. Every quiet, comforting bedroom scene is faced by the sight of the conniving wolf as it makes its way from the woods into the city, straight to the Rue Des Lapins, into the building and onto the elevator. Perhaps the young rabbit has reason to fear its sly ways. What a surprise is in store for readers! For those who share it with little ones, there will be an immediate response - PLEASE! READ IT AGAIN!!!
Little hint: Check out the tiny rabbit's ears once Mom has left the room, and she is alone to sleep. ;)
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