Literary Lapines: From Peter to Bunnicula Rabbits have long been popular protagonists in children's literature.
Beatrix Potter's PETER RABBIT, his sisters Flopsy, Mopsy, and Cottontail and cousin Benjamin Bunny have delighted readers of all ages for over 100 years. Introduced at the same time but in this country was UNCLE WIGGLY, a kindly elderly rabbit who was featured in 79 books plus daily comic strips, now mostly forgotten.
Here's a short list of other fantastic rabbit books:
THE VELVETEEN RABBIT OR HOW TOYS BECAME REAL by Margery Williams, 1922. This was a cult classic in the 60's for some reason. THE RUNAWAY BUNNY by Margaret Wise Brown, illustrated by Clement Hurd, 1942. Mama rabbit reassures little rabbit that she watches over him wherever he goes. A sweet bedtime story.
MARSHMALLOW by Clare Turlay Newberry, 1943. Sometimes rabbits are just rabbits. This pet rabbit's best friend is a cat. Beautiful charcoal illustrations.
THE RABBIT'S WEDDING by Garth Williams, 1958. An innocent tale about friendship and love, this book was banned in some Alabama libraries because a white rabbit married a black rabbit! In reaction, the author/illustrator said, “ I was completely unaware,” he said ironically. “that animals with white fur such as white polar bears and white dogs and white rabbits were considered blood relations of white human beings. I was only aware that a white horse next to a black horse looks very picturesque…” One of our favorites.
WATERSHIP DOWN by Richard Adams, 1972. Written in England for children but considered a book for adults in the U. S. The rabbits' home is destroyed for development and their struggles to find a new home and build a new society can be seen as a social and political allegory.
BUNNICULA : A RABBIT TALE OF MYSTERY by Deborah and James Howe, 1979. A red-eyed rabbit sucks all the juice out of vegetables. Very silly, kids love it
THE MAGIC RABBIT by Annette LeBlanc Cate, 2007. A rabbit is separated from his magician partner, and alone in the city at night, despairs of finding his friend again. Wonderfully detailed black and white illustrations make this book extra special.
THE MIRACULOUS JOURNEY OF EDWARD TULANE by Kate DiCamillo, 2006. A personal favorite, in many ways more meaningful to adults than children. A toy rabbit, beautiful but haughty, is lost and is passed along through several owners from all walks of life, and learns compassion and love.
Books with rabbits in them - what a bonus! Children's books, at least the best children's books, are not meaningful to children only. They are simply shorter than adult books, and often include wonderful artwork, and can be just as thought-provoking and entertaining as so-called adult books. Contact us if you want more recommendations! Rabbits are our specialty!
Resources manager Thomas J. Witt has given permission for placing this cache on Consolidated Water Power Company land. No motorized vehicles are permitted. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO DRIVE DOWN THE DIRT ROAD! It looks good at the beginning but it gets worse and worse with no turnarounds.