Parents' Guide to

Wolves

By Patricia Tauzer, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 5+

Witty with incredible art, but too scary for some.

Book Emily Gravett Picture Book 2006
Wolves Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this book.

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What's the Story?

A floppy-eared rabbit checks out a book about wolves from the library, and learns facts that alarm him. An alternative ending stresses that this is a work of fiction, and the vegetarian wolf becomes the rabbit's best friend.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

Readers will find themselves as engrossed as the rabbit by the growing suspense in this book. Page by page, the innocent child-like creature is walking closer to danger. And the exquisite drawings definitely add to the drama. Always in black and white pencil, the wolf is drawn as a salivating, sharp-toothed, chop-licking predator, who is just waiting for the right moment, and gets his chance. The rabbit is a long-eared, friendly, beige-colored cutie who doesn't have a clue about what he's walking into.

The author's assurance that no rabbit was harmed in the making of this book, and her alternative ending in which both become friends, may be a comfort to some readers who find themselves horrified at the ending. Others may appreciate the witty, dry humor of the first version, and want to stick with it. Either way, this is a unique book, full of small clever details, fascinating art, and a story that most kids, especially the less sensitive ones, will enjoy.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about wolves, and the facts that are offered. They also can talk about the rabbit. Which seems more real? Can rabbits read? Do wolves eat rabbits? Do you think wolves can really be vegetarians? Which of the two endings do you like best? Also, parents should be ready to discuss predator/prey relationships natural to the world, and what they, and their kids, think about it.

Book Details

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