Bunnies!!!
The only title on our list that includes three exclamation points is this brightly illustrated, easy-to-read tale of a lovable little monster who greets everything in his path. Nothing, however, seems to match his level of enthusiasm when he sees a group of small bunnies along the way. Readers can imagine his dismay when the bunnies are not quite as enthusiastic about meeting him. Young readers will love to watch the expressions on the characters’ faces and reflect those expressions in their own voices as they read. The surprise ending may lead you to suspect that the bunnies might get a break…but don’t be fooled. This book is one that will be read and re-read enough to keep those bunnies hopping!
Pennsylvania Center for the Book Awards
Book Activities & Discussion Ideas
This book provides a wonderful opportunity to get children up and moving while building vocabulary at the same time! When children aren’t looking, hide a few paper or stuffed “bunnies” around the house, classroom, or outdoors. After reading the story, children can pretend that they are the monster, taking turns to say hello to various objects and/or people that they see along the way. Whenever someone spots a bunny, everyone can yell, “Bunnies!!!” A second activity could be to think about all of the different feelings that the monster is having during the story. Adults could choose one word, such as, “Hello,” and hold up various picture cards showing different emotions. Children can practice saying the word “Hello” using voices to match each emotion.
As a parent or caregiver, adults often wonder at the excitement and enthusiasm young children have toward simple, everyday happenings in their world. Adults are often children’s guides to understanding the world around them and helping them understand feelings such as happiness, sadness, surprise, and disappointment. Reading this book together allows adults to talk with children about how the characters must be feeling in each illustration, and how readers can change their voices and facial expressions to help tell the story. Adults may find that when reading this story with emotion, children will not only want to look at the pages of the book, but at the adult’s expressions as well. The simple text allows children to join in as readers and express emotions in their own unique ways.