A few reviews ago I mentioned that too sweet is peppermint patties and hot chocolate. This time, this book is not exactly that sweet, but it is close to it. Willow and Bunny has a spiritual feeling that could be too sweet for some people, and maybe not enough for others. Anitra Rowe Schulte’s story is about a bunny who “hears a voice” and follows it, trusting it will not lead them astray. And sure enough they find the Willow tree and her shelter. Over the years they watch for each other, help each other and Bunny is taken care of. During a terrible story Willow opens herself up to the other animals in the forest for safety. The next day, the land is damaged and Willow a bit worse for wear. But the animals help her. Eventually all but Bunny leaves. And as time passes, Bunny and Willow are always a team.
And yes, there is a message of hope, friendship, community, and helping it is also just a nice story. A sweet, simple story, that is not jumping up and down with adventures, but with a nice, soft tone. And the artwork follows that theme. Christopher Denise and their artwork will allow this mid-October 2023 book to become a possible other Caldecott winner for them. They created details and colors that are smooth, golden and the use of light and dark is perfectly done. I can see this book being made into a film along the lines of the Snowman (without the words) or with a narrator telling the poetic text.
Honestly, I am not sure if this book will become a classic, but I do know that it will be one that you remember reading to your children. And while it might not work well as a group read or in a classroom, it is a nice one-on-one read. Do know your audience, as all ages can do, but not all ages should do.