Inspired by a true story, Into the Thicket begins with the moment the author's young son discovered an injured baby rabbit.
4-9 Years
8.5" x 8.5" Paperback
58 Pages
Juvenile Fiction, Animals
Description
About the Book
The book begins when a boy discovers an injured baby rabbit and explores themes of compassion, courage, love and letting go. It invites young readers to develop empathy and appreciation for nature. Stunning watercolor illustrations.
Book Synopsis
Inspired by a true story, Into the Thicket begins with the moment the author's young son discovered an injured baby rabbit. 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 that the smallest acts of kindness can ripple through a great, big world.
The award-winning book introduces wildlife rehab and helpful info on rabbits, for children's social and emotional learning and STEM education. Won Silver, Readers' Choice Book Awards, Bronze, The Wishing Shelf Book Awards.
4.7 stars Amazon & Goodreads
"what a precious little gem of a book! I had no idea how much heart was waiting inside."
"A masterpiece in telling about kindness ... and caring for others."
"The text and the watercolor illustrations give the vibe of classic literature."
"It leaves you with a cozy, lingering feeling-highly recommended."
"Gail knocked it out of the park ... heartwarming story really tugs at your heartstrings. The art is absolutely stunning."
"... destined to become a classic for families who value emotional intelligence and kindness as much as adventure and imagination."
"My kid thought the pictures where everyone turned into a rabbit was hilarious!"
"...one of those books you'd keep hold of forever"
Review Quotes
DELICIOUSLY SAVVY
"I have to begin by saying just how much I loveInto the Thicket. This book captured my heart instantly, the way only a truly special story can-one that feels warm, wise, and wonderfully alive. Gail Kuhnlein has created a tale that isn't just beautiful to read, but deeply meaningful, offering young readers (and grown-ups too) a gentle, powerful lesson about compassion. ...
"And of course, I can't talk about Into the Thicket without praising John Megahan's extraordinary illustrations. His artwork is breathtaking.....lush, expressive, and full of emotion."
-Melissa Cushing
THE MIDWEST BOOK REVIEW - SELECTED AS REVIEWER'S CHOICE
"Original, unique, deftly crafted, informative, engaging, bearing an important and inspiring message about kindness, rescue, engagement, and liberation with respect to animals in stress, "Into the Thicket" is an entertaining and inherently fascinating read from start to finish ... especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections for children ages 4-8."
-James Cox, Editor-in-Chief, Midwest Book Review
THE CHILDREN'S BOOK REVIEW
" ... Uplifting and touching, Into the Thicket is the perfect story for quiet, sensitive, nature-loving readers everywhere. ... a great starting point for discussions about wildlife rescue and the importance of caring for our natural world, making it an ideal addition to classroom or home libraries."
-Dr. Jen Harrison
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ REEDSY DISCOVERY
"... 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.
"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."
-Jennifer Senick
Dimensions (Overall): 8.5 Inches (H) x 8.5 Inches (W) x .16 Inches (D)
Weight: .35 Pounds
Suggested Age: 4-9 Years
Number of Pages: 58
Genre: Juvenile Fiction
Sub-Genre: Animals
Publisher: Bookbaby
Theme: Rabbits
Format: Paperback
Author: Gail Kuhnlein
Language: English
Street Date: April 30, 2026
TCIN: 1012698622
UPC: 9798990747814
Item Number (DPCI): 247-57-3849
Origin: Made in the USA or Imported
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Shipping details
Estimated ship dimensions: 0.16 inches length x 8.5 inches width x 8.5 inches height
Estimated ship weight: 0.35 pounds
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Return details
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