Peanut Butter and Donner: A Curious Chorus - by Erin Rosenblum Mft (Hardcover)

About the Book

Peanut Butter & Donner: A Curious Chorus is a heartwarming, read-aloud picture book that celebrates unlikely friendship, emotional expression, and the power of kindness. Perfect for ages 5-10, this beautifully illustrated story follows Peanut Butter, a shy rabbit, and Donner, an outgoing parakeet, as they learn to navigate their differences through music, patience, and play.
Inspired by a real-life rescued bunny and bird, A Curious Chorus gently introduces themes of sensory sensitivity, emotional regulation, and the importance of listening--making it an ideal choice for parents, teachers, and therapists supporting social-emotional learning at home or in the classroom.
With lyrical rhymes, vibrant illustrations, and tender moments of connection, this book helps young readers explore big feelings in a safe and developmentally appropriate way. It's especially relatable for shy or sensitive children and those learning how to communicate their needs in friendship.
Whether you're looking for a children's book about emotional intelligence, a gentle read-aloud for bedtime, or a classroom resource to encourage kindness, friendship, and inclusion, Peanut Butter & Donner: A Curious Chorus will sing its way into your heart.

Book Synopsis

Peanut Butter & Donner: A Curious Chorus is a beautifully illustrated, rhyming picture book that explores emotional expression, trust, and unlikely friendship through the tender story of a rescued rabbit and an outgoing parakeet. With warmth, humor, and heart, this book invites readers ages 5-10 into a cozy world where kindness, music, and patience build the foundation for true connection.
Peanut Butter, a nervous and shy bunny, and Donner, a bold and musical parakeet, couldn't be more different. But when their paths cross and they begin to share a home, their friendship begins to bloom--slowly, softly, and with care. As Donner sings and plays, he begins to notice that Peanut Butter retreats. Through trial and gentle effort, he discovers how to meet his friend where he is, changing his tune both literally and emotionally. What unfolds is a story full of heart, imagination, and growth.
Based on the real-life bond between the author's own bunny and parakeet, this book is a perfect blend of real-life inspiration and whimsical storytelling. The illustrations bring every bounce, flap, and floppy ear to life, making this a captivating visual experience for young readers.
Themes of emotional regulation, sensory sensitivity, empathy, and self-awareness are seamlessly woven into a story that children can connect with--especially those who are shy, easily overstimulated, or learning how to express their emotions. It is particularly useful for:
⭐️ Parents of highly sensitive or neurodivergent children
⭐️ Educators looking for picture books that support social-emotional learning
⭐️ Therapists, parents, and educators seeking gentle tools for talking about friendship, anxiety, or communication
With a comforting tone and rhythmic language, A Curious Chorus helps kids understand that it's okay to need space, it's brave to be vulnerable, and friendships grow best when we listen, adjust, and care for one another.
If you're looking for:
⭐️Books about unlikely animal friendships
⭐️ Stories that teach emotional intelligence
⭐️ Gentle bedtime read-alouds with meaning
⭐️ Tools to support big feelings in small kids
...then Peanut Butter & Donner: A Curious Chorus will be a delightful and lasting addition to your bookshelf.

About the Author

Erin Rosenblum is a licensed therapist and children's book author who writes heart-centered stories that help young readers navigate big feelings, develop emotional intelligence, and build meaningful connections. With over 15 years of experience in the field of mental health, Erin brings therapeutic insight and emotional warmth to every story, making her books especially useful for parents, teachers, caregivers, and therapists looking for resources that support social-emotional learning.
Her debut picture book, A Curious Chorus, is the first in the Peanut Butter & Donner series--gentle, rhyming animal stories about emotional regulation, navigating hard feelings, and building confidence. Inspired by her own real-life rescued rabbit and parakeet, this story focuses on an unlikely friendship between a shy bunny and a bold bird, exploring how empathy, patience, and kindness can bridge differences and create safe, lasting bonds.
Each book in the series is designed to help children process emotions in developmentally appropriate ways, using comforting language and illustrations. Erin's writing speaks to themes like shyness, bravery, grief, envy, friendship, emotional resilience, and confidence all through the lens of a very special animal friendship.
When she's not writing or working in her psychotherapy practice, Erin enjoys spending time with her family and friends; surrounded by their household of beloved animals--including the real Peanut Butter and Donner. She believes in finding magic in small moments and hopes her books help children feel seen, soothed, and inspired.
Aubree is a rising artist whose passion for creativity shines through in everything she does--from art and storytelling to school, sports, and spending time with friends. A true multi-talented creator, she brings curiosity, energy, and heart into each project she takes on. A Curious Chorus marks her debut as a children's book illustrator, and she has poured her love of color, character, and detail into every page.
Aubree's illustrations bring the world of Peanut Butter and Donner to life with warmth and imagination. Her art carefully ties together the emotional journey of the story--from the early moments of loneliness and fear, to the playful joy and deep trust that blossom between the characters. Each visual element was thoughtfully crafted to reflect the story's core themes of friendship, emotional growth, and finding comfort in being exactly who you are.
Through her artwork, Aubree not only captures the spirit of this gentle, rhyming picture book but also deepens its emotional resonance for young readers. Her style blends expressive character design with playful settings that inspire curiosity and spark imagination. She has a natural gift for visual storytelling, and her work in A Curious Chorus showcases her ability to translate feelings into images that are both engaging and accessible.
When she's not drawing painting or crocheting, Aubree can be found enjoying school, spending time with friends, playing sports, or exploring new ways to be creative. Her love of learning and artistic talent can be felt on every page she touches.