The Rabbit and the Shadow by Mélanie Rutten from Eerdmans Publishing [Review and Giveaway]

My thoughts: This is a charming "chapter" book for early readers. It is also a picture book. I like that publishers and authors are beginning to divide picture book stories into segments or "chapters" which enable a child to learn to break out the story into prescribed sections or portions. 

Mélanie Rutten uses her dual talents of drawing and painting coupled with top notch storytelling to share a woodlands creatures story of growing up and all that it encompasses. Originally published in France under the title of L'ombre de chacun, the story explores the complexities of growing up, meeting others, dreaming of things to come, overcoming problems, and simply adjusting to life as it comes at us.

Rabbit is left at the door of Stag and become parent and child. The story is tender and flows with a gentle beauty. As Rabbit grows he branches out and discovers new acquaintances - Soldier and Cat. They sort of band together and begin their meanderings and discoveries. This branching out to have friendships outside the parental bond is primary to ultimate maturity and departure from the security of the home. The necessity of understanding the differences of others and their and your goals in life is also part of the maturation process.

This journey of Rabbit with his friends explores the volcanoes of life that explode upon the scene and of which we are afraid, and the darkness of the nights of our existence. All are fears to be overcome.

The illustrations are done in sweeping line drawings and vivid water colors. Strong yet somewhat whimsical.

While there are complexities to the story, it can be read as simply a sweet story of Rabbit venturing forth. No need to explain the deeper thoughts and intent of the author. Just read it and enjoy. Or..... peruse some philosophical musings.

About the book: An imaginative story about growing up and growing together

Three strangers meet in the forest, each on their own quest: the cat is looking for his ball, the angry soldier is searching for peace, and the rabbit is learning how to grow up. They decide to hike to the top of a volcano together, and along the journey they help each other confront their own fears and insecurities. Though the paths they take are bumpy and tangled, eventually they all man-age to find just what they’re looking for.

Perfect for fans of the Frog and the Toad series, this stunning ensemble book offers a coming-of-age tale about fear, dreams, journeys, and family.

~ GIVEAWAY ~

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Ends May 4 at 12:01 a.m. EDT

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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Eerdmans Publishing to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and are freely given.