Two rabbits

Even the best of pals may fight, but these two childlike rabbits remind readers about the value of friendship. When Little Grey Rabbit and Little Brown Rabbit argue on "a dark rainy night, on a cold wet field," they exchange sharp words typical of many childish fights, and the wind carries their words along. "Don't be so mean!" "I'm not your friend anymore!" "I don't like you!" The rabbits go off in separate directions. As the rain continues, each rabbit deals with the storm of anger in her heart. Their stories are told in parallel. The left-hand page of one spread shows Little Grey Rabbit trying to calm down but still kicking a fallen apple, while the right-hand page depicts Little Brown Rabbit kicking a dandelion. Both rabbits work through sadness, loss, and loneliness. As morning approaches, the wind, as their conscience, returns to remind them of their friendship, and both race back to the field with apologies, hugs, and gifts. This simple story will be a good discussion starter for readers dealing with the inevitability of childhood fights. Uncluttered, stylistic illustrations first feature leaden skies during the fight and separation but subtly transition to happy dawn colors after the two make up. For fun, readers can trace each rabbit's path on the endpaper map. Will ease little ones through the heat of a fight to the joys of reconciliation. (Picture book. 3-6) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.