Bear is happy living on his own, in the middle of nowhere, with nothing to bother him. So, when a family of rabbits move in next door, you can understand why he gets a little cross.
Pretty soon, those pesky rabbits are on his doorstep, asking to borrow honey, for help to chop wood, if Bear would like to swap books ...
And bear, in no uncertain roars, tells them to leave him alone. So they do.
Until ...
Those pesky rabbits show him that being kind and welcoming and enjoying the company of others, is not so bad after all.
This is a gorgeous picture book with a really well-crafted and clever storyline. Simple yet plump with meaning, its messaging is subtle, beautifully-done, and so well appreciated by this avid picture book reader. Let's just say, Ciara Flood has got it right.
Then there's the illustrations--just beyond luscious. So much so, I went back through the book just to ogle the beauty, sans text. Reminiscent of the style of the great Emily Gravett, Ciara has created divine scenes, humour, depth and emotion, with each and every image. From the 'go away' doormat to the little mouse scampering around each double-page spread, the tiny details are also a delight.
One of my favourite picture books so far this year. Don't miss it.
Title: Those Pesky Rabbits
Author/Illustrator: Ciara Flood
Publisher: Koala Books, $24.99 RRP
Publication Date: 1 March 2015
Format: Hard cover
ISBN: 9781742761442
For ages: 3 - 8
Type: Picture Book