What makes a family? Is it a name? Or perhaps similar characteristics among its members? Maybe similar abilities? Or similar traits? Well, Mommy Rabbit had a special family. Each member was different in many different ways, but each one knew he or she was loved dearly. Bunny was Mommy Rabbit’s first little honey, and he was as sweet as could be. Before long, Little Duckling came along to join the family. Even though he didn’t look like a bunny, Mommy Rabbit was still his mommy. Little Duckling became Mommy Rabbit’s second little honey. Of course, Miss Mouse, Mommy Rabbit’s third little honey, didn’t look like a bunny, but Mommy Rabbit became her mommy, too. Each little honey was as different as could be, but all needed love and affection.
Bunny, Little Duckling, and Miss Mouse play together, sing together, and know they are loved by Mommy Rabbit. When Mommy Rabbit says, All together now, the three little honeys know it is time to sing their favorite song. Each one has a favorite line in the song that includes a special meaning just for them. Each has a special game at which they are best: Bunny is best at run-rabbit-run, Little Duckling at splashy-sploshy games, and Miss Mouse at itchy-twitchy, squirly-whirly games. Still, there remains one game that each plays well: the thump-your-great-big-feet game. Even though they are all different in so many ways, Bunny, Little Duckling, and Miss Mouse all have great big feet! In this sequel to Bunny, My Honey, Anita Jeram artfully presents a simple, loving story that will touch the hearts of her readers. Jeram’s animal characters exhibit human qualities and emotions which reinforce the moral of the story. Jeram, who illustrated the classic Guess How Much I Love You, presents beautiful watercolor and ink illustrations that carry the story line gracefully from page to page. The delightful pictures will charm youngsters whether they are being read to or reading the book themselves. All Together Now (ages 3 and up) is a sweet, warm, fuzzy story with a special message that young children (whether in age or heart) can grasp and understand. After all, the message of love is universal.
Dr. Cynthia Drennan is a retired university administrator.
