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

Anchored

Tug watches as Ship pulls out into the deep ocean, leaving her behind. As she continues working, Tug wonders whether Ship misses her as much as she misses Ship. She begins to less brave and more alone until one day, Tug hears a familiar ‘Boom, boom, boom’ and realises that Ship has returned. Once Tug has heard all about Ship’s travels, she is reassured to know that Ship has missed Tug just as much and that thinking of Tug made Ship feel braver and less alone. The next time Ship set sail, Tug felt much happier, knowing that, although they were apart, they were in each other’s hearts.

‘Anchored’ is a delightful picture book, showing that love is stronger than separation. Larger than little Tug, Ship is not gendered in the story, allowing Ship to represent any missing adult in a child’s life, making the story more relevant to them. Whatever reason there might be for a separation- an enforced absence due to work, starting nursery or reception, grandparents going on holiday- the message is loud and clear: they are ‘anchored in each other’s hearts’.

The book could equally be applied to friends who have been separated. Although small, Tug is powerful. She persists in her daily tasks, doing her best, warmed by the knowledge that Ship loves her and is thinking of her. Each spread is beautifully illustrated by Arielle Li, who manages to capture a real sense of love between Ship and Tug. It is a joyful story, perfect for sharing!

Anchored

Debra Tidball, illustrated by Arielle Li

EK Books ISBN: 978-1922539496