Common Sense Media Review
By Patricia Tauzer
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Award-winning book with great preschool lessons.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 3+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
Though he means well, Rabbit's exuberance gets him into trouble at times. Still, his friend Mouse lets him fly his toy plane, which of course ends up in a tree. Rabbit's inventive solution to get the plane down doesn't exactly work ... but wait, not to worry, he has a new idea.
Is It Any Good?
With its strong artistic lines, simple text, and uplifting message, the Caldecott Medal-winner MY FRIEND RABBIT should be a part of every young child's library. Readers will be drawn in by bold, graphic illustrations set within a black-lined frame, but they will stay because of the message. The tale is simple yet poignant, and kids and adults alike will relate.
The primary themes are how to play with the big kids, how to share a treasured toy, how to solve problems for yourself, and whether people will still be your friends when you mess up. All of this is addressed in the simple, supportive friendship of Rabbit and Mouse. Their relationship and Rabbit's shenanigans bring to mind other mischievous but well-meaning characters such as Curious George, the Cat in the Hat and, of course, the Froggy from the series by Jonathan London.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about friendship and sharing. How did Mouse feel when Rabbit flew his plane into the tree? Did Rabbit have a good idea for getting it down? Would that really work? Could you think of other ways to get the plane down? Why didn't Mouse get mad at him? How do you feel when you have a new toy? Do you feel like sharing it with just anyone? How about with your best friend? Have you ever wanted to play with something that was special to someone else? Would they share with you? Have you ever broken or lost a toy you have borrowed? What did you do about it? Was Mouse a good friend? What about Rabbit?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Eric Rohmann
- Genre : Friendship
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Roaring Brook Press
- Publication date : May 1, 2002
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 4 - 7
- Number of pages : 32
- Award : Caldecott Medal and Honors
- Last updated : June 19, 2019
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