Ever thought about adopting or fostering a rabbit?
Then you will love reading this new children’s book, Borrowing Bunnies, written by Cynthia Lord; photographs by John Bald; and illustrated by Hazel Mitchell.
Synopsis
Newbery Honor author Cynthia Lord likes fostering rabbits—or, as she fondly calls it, “borrowing bunnies.” This is the heartwarming true story of the author’s own journey with two very special rabbits.
In the spring of 2016, Peggotty and Benjamin were saved by Maine’s Cottontail Cottage Rabbit Rescue after their previous owners had neglected them. But before the two Netherland Dwarf rabbits could be adopted, Cynthia had to help them learn to trust people and feel safe inside a home. The bunnies slowly settled in, enjoying their clean pens, nibbling new foods, and playing with fun toys, while Cindy’s husband, John Bald, photographed Benjamin and Peggotty’s every step toward adoption. At that time, hundreds of viewers were drawn to Cindy’s Facebook page to watch their progress. Now, she has adapted the rabbits’ true story into a picture book that explores love, responsibility, empathy, and letting go—along with fostering’s many surprises, both big and small.
#MelAndNikkiReview
Borrowing Bunnies is a heart-warming story about one person’s personal experience in fostering bunnies. It is full of great information for anyone considering to get a rabbit.
Young readers will delight in watching these bunnies thrive while also learning a few fun animal facts. With Cindy’s pitch-perfect blend of warmth and real-life experience, Borrowing Bunnies is a new classic in narrative nonfiction.
The photos and illustrations will make you fall in love with each bunny as you go through their journey to adoption. The tips and personal story written will provide the deep appreciation of the amazing people who open up their homes and hearts to foster. Therefore, for this #MelAndNikkiReview we give it 6 Bunnies out of 5!
We recommend this book for children ages three to six. If you would like to purchase a copy, click here.
“Bunnies are SO cute! It’s important that we know how to take care of them.” – Nikki, Age 4
About the Author
Cynthia Lord is the Newbery Honor author of Rules and other middle-grade novels. Her first picture book, Hot Rod Hamster, inspired a bestselling series about a speed-loving hamster that also includes four early readers. Her chapter-book series, Shelter Pet Squad, appeared on the American Booksellers Association’s ABC Best Books for Children list. Cindy lives in Maine with her husband, John Bald, their children, and a collection of beloved animals, including three rabbites (so far!).
About the Photographer
John Bald is best known for his stunning photographs of landscapes and seascapes throughout New England, particularly along Maine’s rocky coastline. When he and Cindy fostered the family of rabbits featured in this book, he couldn’t resist documenting each precious moment – happy, sad, or silly – with his camera.
About the Illustrator
Hazel Mitchell is the author and illustrator of Toby, as well as the illustrator of several other picture books. When Fezzi and Dodger were old enough to have visitors, Cindy invited Hazel and other artists over to sketch and handle them. Hazel used those early drawings as inspirations in Borrowing Bunnies. She is originally from Yorkshire, England, and currently resides in Maine.
Until next time…Happy Parenting!
-Momma Braga
* The book was provided to Momma Braga in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed here are my own.
