Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Tale (Bccb Blue Ribbon Picture Book Awards (Awards))

So does my daughter (21 months). She's memorized it and likes to 'read' several parts to me...especially Trixie's language "Aggle Flabble Klabble". When we get to the part where Trixie realizes something, my daughter says, "Nuffe Bunny gone!" It's priceless. And having a toddler, the sympathy for the characters goes both ways. How many times have I KNOWN that I have NO idea what my daughter is so desperately trying to tell me!!

This adventurous tale takes place when daddy and little Trixe take a trip to the Laundromat. Knuffle Bunny is a dramatic story about what can happen when daddy is in charge and things don't quite go the way he planned.
The content of the book is aimed at preschool aged children, as are the pictures. However, adults will also find humor in this tale. Anyone who is a parent has probably been in a similar situation as the one depicted in the story. The language in the book is very much language that a preschooler would use and understand. There is a hint of predictability in the story, but it is enjoyable just the same.
The illustrations in the story are interesting. The author has places expressive cartoon drawings over beautiful black and white photographs of Brooklyn, New York. This unique approach not only gives children a chance to focus on the emotion of the characters as well as compare the book to places that they have been. Since the characters are the only things in color, it really focuses the reader onto the emotions that Trixie goes through.
The story truly is about the love that a child has for their favorite things as well as the love that parents have for their children. The cover of the book shows this perfectly, displaying a dad with his hand on his daughter's head while she squeezes her bunny tight. The endpapers foreshadow the events to come, showing Knuffle Bunny in the door of the washing machine. The title page is interesting, showing photos of Trixie's parents growing up and a photo of her and her bunny. This shows that things are always changing. However, through the story the love that Trixie has for her stuffed toy never changes.
This book is a "cautionary tale," one that shows how things that are special to a child become special to the entire family. The book is a worthy addition to any child's bookshelf.

This book is a gem. The children love the blend of photography and Willems cartoon drawings. It has appeal across many ages. This story is one that all children can relate to...getting their point across. I love that mom is the know it all and dad saves the day. The children love Trixie's language and adapt it to using in real life situations. Parents can relate to Trixie going "boneless" with a knowing chuckle. Consider purchasing the follow up book, Knuffle Bunny Too at the same time, but perhaps read them a few months apart so they may be equally savored.

I know Mo Willems has a caldecott for his pidgeon book, but this one about the MIA bunny toy is not particularly engaging. My nearly 2 yr old daughter likes it ok, but it's not a favorite. I think it's a bit overrated.

I gave this book to my granddaughter for her third birthday. We all love the story and enjoy the artwork, as well. After giving Kelsey this book, my daughter told me that DON'T LET THE PIGEON DRIVE THE BUS (another one of Mo Willem's books) was one of Kelsey's favorite preschool stories. After a week of experiencing the book, my daughter told me how much they like reading it together. However, I believe my daughter is the biggest fan of all! It also includes a little humor for the adults, since all parents can relate to losing or misplacing a favorite blanket or toy. I think this will be one of those books that Kelsey (and her mom) will remember forever.