Bunnies on Ice by Johanna Wright

Johanna Wright has done several unusual picture books; The Secret Circus, Bandits, Best Bike Ride Ever, and I always enjoy seeing something a little different, even if it doesn't quite work for my library. This one I can see many parents and kids loving, so I am excited to add it to our collection.

There's no note on how the art was done, but it looks to me like it was painted onto very thick, textured canvas. You can see the grain of the background on which the paint was laid. It adds an interesting dimension to the pictures. They're not strictly representational, but there's a warmth and coziness to the haphazard shapes that is very enjoyable.

The text is short enough to make a good read-aloud even for very young and wiggly ones, but still has an essential beauty. It captures the imagination and determination of a young bunny (or child) who is assured of her expertise and won't let anything - even a few spills - keep her from enjoying the wonders of winter.

Verdict: This won't have the instant popularity of, say, Pete the Cat, but it will win a place in many homes as a favorite bedtime or winter read and would make a great addition to storytime.

ISBN: 9781596434042; Published January 2013 by Roaring Brook Press/Macmillan; Galley provided by publisher at ALA Midwinter 2013; Purchased for the library