Two Rabbits

When Little Grey Rabbit and Little Brown Rabbit argue, their unkind words are carried by the wind. They go off in separate directions, each angry and upset, but sad and alone, they realise how much they are missing their friendship and both seek to make amends.

This delightful story captures the quarrels typical of so many childhood friendships. Quickly spoken, thoughtless phrases like Don’t be so mean! I’m not your friend anymore! I don’t like you! are exchanged before the story of the two little rabbits is told in parallel as they struggle with their frustrations and anger until this fizzles out, leaving each keen to forgive and be forgiven.

Perfect for starting discussions and developing ways of dealing with inevitable squabbles, this is a story for both home and school, encouraging children to value their friendships and acknowledge their role in disagreements. The illustrations are lovely. Simple and uncluttered, their focus is on the little rabbits and their emotions with the colours of the weather reflecting their changing feelings. The endpapers show a map, allowing readers to follow each little rabbit on their journey.

A lovely story!

Two Rabbits

Larissa Ferenchuk and Prue Pittock

EK Books ISBN: 978-1922539656

Published 13th February 2014

Peace on Earth

Poetic text and gorgeous illustrations combine perfectly to tell the beautifully expressed, deeply poignant message of this book. Two children meet and set off on a journey through glorious countryside. A wolf cub joins them as they reach a riverbank and meet another child in a boat who joins in their games as they explore and discover the wonders of the world. When they reach an island, however, discord begins, leading to a furious argument. Bravely, the girl from the boat seeks to intervene and brings the group back together again as they head home in harmony.

From the same perfect pairing which blessed us with ‘Rain Before Rainbows’, ‘Peace on Earth’ is a stunning book, not just for Christmas, but for any time of year. A note at the beginning says the book was inspired by words from Luke 2:14 in the King James version of the Bible- Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men- but the theme here is a universal, all-encompassing one of love, understanding, empathy, tolerance and forgiveness. The text- really a poem- is a joy to read aloud with its beautiful cadence, the directness of the words conveying such intense feelings of joy, anger, sorrow and hope.

David Litchfield’s artwork enhances these words and is turn, enhanced by them. Playful happy scenes with dappled light through trees, sun sparkling on water or the many beauties of the natural world capture the harmony and ‘peace’ as the children play and explore together.

Peace on earth…Let friends be found!

Let laughter ring, let joy abound…

These scenes contrast with darker skies and looming shadows, the furious reds of volcanic eruption and evils serpents which appear as discord engulfs the children, dividing them. Once again, the vivid illustrations speak volumes whilst the text is clear and direct-

But sometimes words can hurt…and sting.

And fires rage and burn within.

It’s books like this one which make me pause and reflect on how lucky readers are to have them. The thought and personal investment in the work from both author and illustrator is a real gift, offering a book which is not only beautiful, but helps to untangle and acknowledge the complex range of emotions we experience - the good and the bad- and to offer resolution, hope, a way forward- this really is not just for Christmas!

As you might have guessed, I absolutely love this one and cannot recommend it highly enough for everyone, everywhere. ‘Peace on Earth’ is absolutely what we need right now.

Peace on Earth

Smriti Halls, illustrated by David Litchfield

Walker Books ISBN: 978-1529507942

You can read my review of ‘Rain Before Rainbows’ here.

One Little Word

After a quarrel in the playground between two friends, the Argument appears. This lurid purple and orange depiction of their disagreement thrives on the ill-feelings in the air, swelling with each nasty word, look or deed. It forces its way between them and all the children in the playground start to take sides. Tension mounts until each mutters ‘sorry’ and with that little word, the Argument starts to shrink and harmony is restored once more.

This is one of those books which are just invaluable for helping children to explore and understand their emotions. Joseph Coelho has perfectly captured how something trivial between friends can escalate into a major issue. No blame is attached to either party, allowing the reader to consider both points of view, making it the perfect starting point for role play, hot seating and drama work. The Argument is seen as the issue here, blocking their friendship, getting in the way of their games, growing as time passes- giving visual representation to the atmosphere which this sort of falling out creates.

Words and pictures really do work completely in harmony in this lovely book. The frustration the children feel, the glee on the growing Argument’s face and then the contrition and relief experienced by the children as they utter that one little word, ‘sorry’, and their friendship blossoms once more are all beautifully captured. This is a book that would work well at home - perhaps to discuss quarrels between siblings- or at school- to defuse and explore playground incidents. I would happily use this with any age group and can think of many occasions with my Year 6’s where it would have been invaluable.

Gorgeous illustrations and soft words of wisdom- an excellent, much needed book!

One Little Word

Joseph Coelho, illustrated by Allison Colpoys

Frances Lincoln ISBN: 978-0711279094

You can read my review of ‘My Beautiful Voice’ here.