Because of the Rabbit

Because of the Rabbit
By Cynthia Lord
Scholastic Press, 2019. Fiction, pp. 183

Emma is about to go through some big changes. She’s starting public school for the first time after being homeschooled her whole life. And on the night before her first day of school she and her game warden father rescue a lost rabbit which she hopes will now bring her good luck. But of course, life never goes according to plan, and Emma learns quickly that her expectations will not quite match reality. Making friends proves to be a greater challenge than Emma anticipated, and she ends up torn between the easy route, and what feels right.

“Because of the Rabbit” is a delightful read from start to finish, with a likable but imperfect main character. Emma’s story will resonate with young readers going through big or small changes, such as starting a new school, moving, or going from homeschool to public school for the first time. The challenges of starting something so big and scary can be overwhelming, but Emma rises to the challenge while making a few mistakes along the way. Emma’s commitment to good will potentially inspire young readers to try to make the kinder choices, and right wrongs that will inevitably happen. On top of the important life lessons, readers get to meet Lapi, the adorable rabbit who steals the show.

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