My Friend Rabbit

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Rohmann, Eric. 2002. MY FRIEND RABBIT. Brookfield, Connecticut: Roaring Book Press. ISBN 0761324208

PLOT SUMMARY
Eric Rohmann shares a tale of friendship between a rabbit and a mouse in this endearing book. Rabbit seems to find trouble “whatever he does, wherever he goes,” and mouse is always around to tag along. The two are playing with a toy airplane when it gets stuck in a tree. As usual, Rabbit has a plan; this one consisting of gathering several animals, and stacking them on top of each other to reach the tall branches. When the plan fails and everyone tumbles to the ground, the animals are not happy, leaving Rabbit the target of their anger. However, Mouse was able to get the toy airplane and save his grateful friend Rabbit from the others.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
This story begins with simple text that gives readers and listeners the information they will need to really understand the rest. The minimal amount of remaining text assist in moving the story along, as this story is primarily told though pictures.

Rohmann’s bright illustrations begin supporting his words, but quickly take responsibility for the characterization and plot development. The amount work Rabbit puts into his plan, the support that Mouse tries to give, and the confusion, irritability, and other emotions of the annoyed animals are clear in the great attention to detail Rohmann has. Readers will not mistake the expressions on the animals’ faces, and their eyes will be drawn to the vibrant colors used throughout.

This almost wordless story is simple to follow, but still leaves room for children to imagine various parts throughout the sequences of events. Many children can relate to this story, as it is easy to understand the bond between Rabbit and Mouse. Young readers will find joy and humor in this heartwarming story of unconditional friendship.

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
Caldecott Medal winner, 2003
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “comically expressive pictures”
BOOKLIST: “Tremendous physical humor”
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY: “gentle lesson in patience and loyalty, balanced on the back of a hilarious set of illustrations”

CONNECTIONS
*This book can bring about a great discussion on friendship, loyalty, and encouragement as well as making good decisions about friendship and the trouble one may get into with friends.
*Gather other books written and/or illustrated by Eric Rohmann. Compare and contrast his artwork, focusing on the animal characters he creates.


*Other books for children written and illustrated by Eric Rohmann are:

Rohmann, Eric. 2008. A KITTEN TALE. New York: Knopf Books for Young Readers. ISBN 0517709153

Rohmann, Eric. 2001. THE CINDER-EYED CATS. New York: Dragonfly Books. ISBN 0440417430

Rohmann, Eric. 1997. TIME FLIES. New York: Dragonfly Books. ISBN 0517885557