Inspired by a true story, Into the Thicket begins with the moment the author’s young son discovered an injured baby rabbit — an encounter that sparked a heartfelt journey of care and connection.
This tender picture book follows a boy and the rabbit he hopes to help, gently exploring themes of compassion, courage, love, and the bittersweet beauty of letting go. It invites young readers to develop empathy and a deeper appreciation for the natural world, showing how even the smallest acts of kindness can ripple through a great, big world.
Featuring stunning watercolor illustrations by acclaimed Ann Arbor artist John Megahan, Into the Thicket is a story families will return to again and again.
Inspired by a true story, Into the Thicket begins with the moment the author’s young son discovered an injured baby rabbit — an encounter that sparked a heartfelt journey of care and connection.
This tender picture book follows a boy and the rabbit he hopes to help, gently exploring themes of compassion, courage, love, and the bittersweet beauty of letting go. It invites young readers to develop empathy and a deeper appreciation for the natural world, showing how even the smallest acts of kindness can ripple through a great, big world.
Featuring stunning watercolor illustrations by acclaimed Ann Arbor artist John Megahan, Into the Thicket is a story families will return to again and again.
Gail Kuhnlein’s Into the Thicket sweeps us into a heartfelt summer story, told through the eyes of young Patrick and his brother Ben. After a high-flying football lands next door, the boys come across an injured baby rabbit lying alone in the sun. While Ben shrugs it off, Patrick can’t turn away. With the help of Felice, a neighbor who rescues wildlife, he sets out to nurse his new friend back to health. But something is standing in his way: a backyard thicket that’s home to both real and imagined frights, including the “goblins” that have haunted him. The tender tale follows Patrick’s journey from fear to courage as he cares for his tiny pal and discovers what it really means to be brave and compassionate.
Kuhnlein’s ability to write without relying on fancy words or an overload of facts is truly a gift. Instead, words that children have an easy time understanding, like worry, hope, and pride, are used. There’s a nice balance between realistic dialogue and sweet, sometimes funny moments, like when Patrick tries to feed his little buddy or how he worries about it. Even though he’s far from perfect, the audience will be rooting for him the entire time. The reluctant Ben also shows some growth by being kind in his own way. His relationship with his brother is relatable and gives it more depth. John Megahan’s illustrations add an extra element of magic, making the backyard thicket feel alive. Children love stories with animals, and they are sure to love how the critters in this one look so natural that they will want to reach out and pet them.
Into the Thicket is a tender story that will comfort sensitive readers, especially animal lovers or those who want to make a difference. Families who value compassion and nature will find it meaningful, and it works beautifully as a classroom read-aloud. The realistic ending is bittersweet yet hopeful, leaving those who read it with a sense of pride and courage to appreciate the wonder in everyday life.