It’s Not Easy Being a Bunny: A Heartfelt Review
As a busy mom, I cherish the moments I can carve out for a cozy bedtime routine—even when it sometimes feels chaotic. Just recently, amidst the usual giggles and squabbles, I grabbed "It’s Not Easy Being a Bunny" by Marie-Louise Gay off our shelf. As I read it aloud, I felt a warmth that might just melt away the day’s stress—and I wasn’t alone; my little ones were captivated from the very first page.
This delightful little gem follows P.J. Funnybunny, a young bunny who’s grappling with the classic question: “Who am I?” Tired of his floppy ears and love for carrots, P.J. sets off on an adventure to discover what it’s like to be a bear, a bird, or even a pig! With each animal he meets, my kids were hooked, shouting their observations and giggling at P.J.’s antics. The plot beautifully weaves in themes of self-acceptance and belonging, which sparked some honest (and pretty hilarious) conversations about how they sometimes wish to be like their friends or siblings.
The illustrations? Pure magic! Bright, cheerful art brought the story to life. As I turned each page, my kids leaned in closer, pointing excitedly at the charming characters. They particularly loved the spread where P.J. flopped around trying to fly like a bird, insisting that “Bunnies can’t fly, Mom!” Oh, the laughter! There’s something so special about their genuine reactions; it’s these moments that make reading together such a joy.
One of the pages that stuck with us was when P.J. finally decides he loves being a bunny after all. I could see in my children’s faces—a subtle knowingness, that warmth that tells them it’s okay to be themselves, just as they are.
I highly recommend "It’s Not Easy Being a Bunny" for kids aged 2 to 5. It strikes just the right balance—it’s engaging enough to hold a toddler’s attention while also offering comforting lessons that will resonate, particularly with little ones trying to navigate their identities. Whether this becomes a staple for Easter or an everyday read, it’s a story that will find a loving spot in any home.
In our family, this book has become more than just a one-time read; it’s a new favorite that I can see being turned to time and again. There’s something about learning to embrace who you are, with P.J. right there alongside us, that feels incredibly valuable. As any parent knows, these moments are fleeting, but with stories like these, I hold on just a little tighter to the laughter and love we share.
Happy reading! 🐰✨
