The Return of the Spirit Rabbit (Bunns Rabbit 2) by Alan Barillaro

What worked:

Bunns is an innocent, humble rabbit who doesn’t want to become the new Land Spirit. Spirit Fox believes these qualities make her the perfect choice, perhaps because other spirits have been hungry for more power. Readers will enjoy Bunns’s transformation from a runt bunny with small ears into the Spirit Rabbit, who controls the land's power. She’s the only creature that can hear the heartsongs of all animals, and she uses this ability to help others. Her selfless attitude and kindness toward all animals are a stark contrast to previous spirits.

Spirit Fox is Bunns’s mentor, but he grows weaker and tells Bunns he will die soon. The Spirit Walrus and Spirit Albatross wage war against Bunns and Fox, and Bunns lacks the confidence and strength to stop them by herself. The author builds tension as Bunns’s efforts to find peace are repeatedly thwarted, and the war’s outcome seems imminent in a fixed future. The book includes an element of folklore, with the characters sharing tales from the past to teach lessons. Illustrations are sprinkled throughout the story to help young readers visualize the troubling events.

Young readers can learn a great deal from the characters and events. Bunns’s kind, modest personality slowly convinces others of his sincerity. She has loyal friends, offering their support without considering the dangers. Bunns can count on love and understanding from her parents and siblings, even as she faces doubt and defiance from others. Characters with different backgrounds and beliefs learn that understanding and caring can be celebrated. Climate change is addressed later in the story; the effects of warming waters create problems.

What didn’t work as well:

Readers new to the series may not understand the backstory of the characters and setting. The blend of plot, folklore, memories, and magic may be unclear. I recommend that you read the previous book first to alleviate this concern.

The final verdict:

It may surprise readers to find a book about a small, cute bunny that shares deep emotions and messages. The plot builds to a suspenseful climax with a thoughtful, satisfying. I recommend you try it for yourself.