Bunnicula: A Rabbit-Tale of Mystery
About:
by Deborah and James Howe
Would you yourself not be suspicious of a new family pet with fangs and black shoulders not unlike a vampire cape? Then you can appreciate the thinking of Chester and Harold when Bunnicula arrives home from the movies in the arms of the Munroes one dark, stormy fall night. The family cat and dog respectively, Chester and Harold are very suspect of this new one and his place in their home, and in the hearts of their masters, especially Peter and Toby, their two boisterous boys. In fact, this book authored by Harold himself, tells all about Bunnicula and the strange goings-on following his appearance in their lives. First published in 1979, Bunnicula is still a best-selling children's book and is my "shouldn't miss" recommendation for October. There are several sequels* which children always asked for in the library once they were introduced to Bunnicula. Along with easy-read versions, there are also notable picture books (Hot Fudge and The Fright Before Christmas) - wonderfully illustrated by Leslie H. Morrill and great fun to read aloud. In all his books the author's love of writing and his care in writing for children is evident. He delights in coming up with witty titles like The Celery Stalks at Midnight and Howliday Inn. He takes pride in sharing his love of language and in being humorous, thought-provoking and scary, but not too scary... (Our vampire bunny is strictly vegetarian!)
Check out James Howe for many other books and series for children from beginning readers up to young adults, some available in electronic format as well as print. I must mention another family pet who shares in producing our fun and tugging our heartstrings later in the stories - namely Howie, the endearing little dachshund who is frightened by most everything and is lucky to be part of the family and its pets, even if one of them is assuredly (well seemingly so) a vampire bunny who turned up at a Dracula movie!.
*James Howe continued the rest of the series solo after the death of his wife who shares credit for Bunnicula.
ISBN: 978-1-4169-2817-1
Mrs. Button's Bookshelf:
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A Note From Mrs. Buttons...
Over the years I have immensely enjoyed many wonderful stories with children at my work and at home. I am pleased to have the opportunity to share here some of the favorites from my bookshelf. Most of my reading/gift recommendations will be for books still readily available; from time to time, however, I will highlight a "backyard treasure" - a book that should be snapped up should you have the great good luck to see it in a yard sale!
I, by the way, concur with C. S. Lewis and George MacDonald that a "good children's book" is one that can be enjoyed at age three or fifty-three.
