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The Rabbit and the Shadow
Enter the wonderful world of the following curious cast: the Rabbit who wants to grow up, the anxious Stag, the Soldier at war, the Cat and his recurring dream, the Book that wants to know everything, and the Shadow.
Over the course of ten short chapters they grow up, learn how to live together and to deal with their fears.
Over the course of ten short chapters they grow up, learn how to live together and to deal with their fears.
56 pages, Hardcover
First published September 5, 2013
33 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
June 30, 2019
Beautiful watercolor illustrations, and sweet story about growing up, finding friends and facing fears and shadows.
I received this copy in an Early Reviewers Giveaway in LibraryThing.
I received this copy in an Early Reviewers Giveaway in LibraryThing.
March 4, 2019
4.5 A unique story about facing your fears and finding your people—illustrated gorgeously in watercolor.
April 1, 2019
There are times when a book challenges as much as it delights, and Rutten's book does this. I've skimmed it once and then read it twice closely now, and love the prose (an expert translation from Sarah Ardizzone that captures some lovely bathos and some serious emotion), the format (small but meaningful chapters or episodes, enriched with vignettes and whole page illustration), and the lovely rich colours and strange, anthropomorphic expressions of Stag, Rabbit, Cat, Book (and the human soldier's knowing grin). But is it an allegory? All a rich pretence in a child's mind as s/he plays and meditates on what growing up will entail? What are the things I should be taking from the denouement as tensions resolve and the author mentions the "slight wind and three shadows perhaps"? Just as with Sendak's Where the Wild Things Are (and the riot of colours does look like later Sendak), this book is both a joy and a puzzle.
December 4, 2022
L’ombra di ognuno è un meraviglioso albo illustrato per bambini unico nel suo genere. Un racconto di formazione in stile fiabesco nel quale ogni personaggio della storia è inizialmente solo, alle prese con le difficoltà correlate alla crescita. https://ilmondodichri.com/lombra-di-o...
April 12, 2018
This is a charming "chapter" book for early readers. It is also a picture book. I like that publishers and authors are beginning to divide picture book stories into segments or "chapters" which enable a child to learn to break out the story into prescribed sections or portions.
Mélanie Rutten uses her dual talents of drawing and painting coupled with top notch storytelling to share a woodlands creatures story of growing up and all that it encompasses. Originally published in France under the title of L'ombre de chacun, the story explores the complexities of growing up, meeting others, dreaming of things to come, overcoming problems, and simply adjusting to life as it comes at us.
Rabbit is left at the door of Stag and become parent and child. The story is tender and flows with a gentle beauty. As Rabbit grows he branches out and discovers new acquaintances - Soldier and Cat. They sort of band together and begin their meanderings and discoveries. This branching out to have friendships outside the parental bond is primary to ultimate maturity and departure from the security of the home. The necessity of understanding the differences of others and their and your goals in life is also part of the maturation process.
This journey of Rabbit with his friends explores the volcanoes of life that explode upon the scene and of which we are afraid, and the darkness of the nights of our existence. All are fears to be overcome.
The illustrations are done in sweeping line drawings and vivid water colors. Strong yet somewhat whimsical.
While there are complexities to the story, it can be read as simply a sweet story of Rabbit venturing forth. No need to explain the deeper thoughts and intent of the author. Just read it and enjoy. Or..... peruse some philosophical musings.
~ GIVEAWAY ~ on my blog - Begins April 12 & Ends May 4 at 12:01 a.m. EDT - Open to USA addresses only http://chatwithvera.blogspot.com/2018...
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Eerdmans Publishing to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and are freely given.
Mélanie Rutten uses her dual talents of drawing and painting coupled with top notch storytelling to share a woodlands creatures story of growing up and all that it encompasses. Originally published in France under the title of L'ombre de chacun, the story explores the complexities of growing up, meeting others, dreaming of things to come, overcoming problems, and simply adjusting to life as it comes at us.
Rabbit is left at the door of Stag and become parent and child. The story is tender and flows with a gentle beauty. As Rabbit grows he branches out and discovers new acquaintances - Soldier and Cat. They sort of band together and begin their meanderings and discoveries. This branching out to have friendships outside the parental bond is primary to ultimate maturity and departure from the security of the home. The necessity of understanding the differences of others and their and your goals in life is also part of the maturation process.
This journey of Rabbit with his friends explores the volcanoes of life that explode upon the scene and of which we are afraid, and the darkness of the nights of our existence. All are fears to be overcome.
The illustrations are done in sweeping line drawings and vivid water colors. Strong yet somewhat whimsical.
While there are complexities to the story, it can be read as simply a sweet story of Rabbit venturing forth. No need to explain the deeper thoughts and intent of the author. Just read it and enjoy. Or..... peruse some philosophical musings.
~ GIVEAWAY ~ on my blog - Begins April 12 & Ends May 4 at 12:01 a.m. EDT - Open to USA addresses only http://chatwithvera.blogspot.com/2018...
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Eerdmans Publishing to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and are freely given.
November 29, 2019
The Rabbit and the Shadow is a story which takes a variety of problems which one may be facing and presents them all with equal weighting. I particularly liked this, because it demonstrated the way in which people may be facing a variety of problems, but that each has equal validity. The way in which all the characters are able to progress and overcome the ‘problems’ they face is an endearing reminder that with the help of friends, one is able to overcome whatever they put their minds to.
This story does deal with some sensitive issues, such as fears, the way one portrays themselves to others and ‘growing up’. As such, it is important to be mindful of the children in your class and the needs they have if this story is to be used in the classroom. however , this book could be used as a vehicle for discussing such issues in an open environment.
This story does deal with some sensitive issues, such as fears, the way one portrays themselves to others and ‘growing up’. As such, it is important to be mindful of the children in your class and the needs they have if this story is to be used in the classroom. however , this book could be used as a vehicle for discussing such issues in an open environment.
April 25, 2018
This book was beautifully illustrated. I loved all the drawings and the unique style. However, the concepts in this book seem a bit advanced for the age group. My son was not interested in the story and had trouble following the choppy writing style.
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May 30, 2018I'm not sure what to make of this book. I think I need to read it about 12 more times.
December 26, 2019
I thought this was quite a challenging book (in a good way) as it takes a lot of thought and concentration. I loved the journey the friends go on together and think it would be a great book to read to children who are starting to gain some independence. The illustrations were my favourite part and really compliment the words.
March 4, 2018
The Rabbit and the Shadow
By: Melanie Rutten
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This book was originally published in France in 2013. An English translation was released in 2014 and this new edition in 2018.
Plot
This is really a beautiful little book about how facing our fears helps us grow up. I think too it is a story about how we find our families in this world.
Illustrations
The illustrations in this book are done by the author in watercolors. They are deep hues of blues, reds, greens, and browns that blend with every shade and add a richness to the world she has created. Some of the scenes are just soaked with color and some of the pages are delicately swirled. All of the pages tell a story all of their own, even without words. I especially loved the page where the Stag is telling Rabbit the story about the Great Bear always watching over her Little One. The story is great and speaks to mythology but the pictures just create the story itself. I read that the author spent time in other countries and you can see this influence in the world she has created on the page. Just take a look at the landscape that the characters transverse.
I especially loved how the author/illustrator portrayed the “Shadow”. At first, we see the Shadow as a black outline in the woods or lurking in the background. As the story continues, the Shadow is revealed to be the Great Bear. Yes, that Great Bear, the one who watches over her children, always. There is a beautiful scene of this Mother Bear (after she is revealed as the Shadow) dancing that is full of movement and tenderness. Our travelers have faced their fears and can now embrace the Shadow (the unknown?) with love and a sense of family.
Conclusion:
Really, this is just a magnificent little book that you will love. The story is short but I think I fell in love with all of these characters.
By: Melanie Rutten
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This book was originally published in France in 2013. An English translation was released in 2014 and this new edition in 2018.
Plot
This is really a beautiful little book about how facing our fears helps us grow up. I think too it is a story about how we find our families in this world.
Illustrations
The illustrations in this book are done by the author in watercolors. They are deep hues of blues, reds, greens, and browns that blend with every shade and add a richness to the world she has created. Some of the scenes are just soaked with color and some of the pages are delicately swirled. All of the pages tell a story all of their own, even without words. I especially loved the page where the Stag is telling Rabbit the story about the Great Bear always watching over her Little One. The story is great and speaks to mythology but the pictures just create the story itself. I read that the author spent time in other countries and you can see this influence in the world she has created on the page. Just take a look at the landscape that the characters transverse.
I especially loved how the author/illustrator portrayed the “Shadow”. At first, we see the Shadow as a black outline in the woods or lurking in the background. As the story continues, the Shadow is revealed to be the Great Bear. Yes, that Great Bear, the one who watches over her children, always. There is a beautiful scene of this Mother Bear (after she is revealed as the Shadow) dancing that is full of movement and tenderness. Our travelers have faced their fears and can now embrace the Shadow (the unknown?) with love and a sense of family.
Conclusion:
Really, this is just a magnificent little book that you will love. The story is short but I think I fell in love with all of these characters.
March 14, 2018
This French import is a strange and haunting picture book. When Stag finds Rabbit left on his doorstep, he takes Rabbit in and raises him. They laugh together and feel each other’s pain. They race home and Stag always lets Rabbit win. Rabbit worries that Stag won’t always be there and Stag knows that Rabbit with grow up and eventually leave. Then one day, that happens. Rabbit is alone in the woods and meets two others, a Cat who loves soccer and a Warrior who is very angry. The three of them adventure together and form a family of sorts, eventually they all become more honest about who they are. Still, there is a shadow lingering nearby, one that has been in Rabbit’s story since the beginning. Can that Shadow help bring Stag and Rabbit together again?
Told with such heart and beauty, this picture book is a very different read. It is about family and adoption, but also reaches beyond that to the struggle of growing up and being independent, yet the homesickness and longing for people you love. It’s a deep picture book, that reaches into dark corners and reveals that shadows can actually protect and guard. It’s a book that shows that the universe can revolve around love and still allow exploration, new friends and wonder. The illustrations are playful at times, dark with worry at others, and exploding with joy too. Emotions are not only depicted by the characters but embraced by the entire color palette too.
One of those wonderful picture book imports that will blow your mind. Appropriate for ages 5-7.
Told with such heart and beauty, this picture book is a very different read. It is about family and adoption, but also reaches beyond that to the struggle of growing up and being independent, yet the homesickness and longing for people you love. It’s a deep picture book, that reaches into dark corners and reveals that shadows can actually protect and guard. It’s a book that shows that the universe can revolve around love and still allow exploration, new friends and wonder. The illustrations are playful at times, dark with worry at others, and exploding with joy too. Emotions are not only depicted by the characters but embraced by the entire color palette too.
One of those wonderful picture book imports that will blow your mind. Appropriate for ages 5-7.
May 5, 2019
In Melanie Rutten's heartfelt picture book, "The Rabbit and the Shadow" we follow the journey of several significant characters who each have a personal struggle they are facing. The story revolves around two characters, the Rabbit and the Stag who experience similar emotions such as feeling hurt or having anxiety and as a result, rely on one another. They both need reassurance as they fear that one day, they will be separated. We learn about a soldier facing his own personal war, a cat who keeps having reoccurring dreams, a book who wants to be knowledgeable, and a shadow. The book is broken down into short chapters focusing on narratives from each of the characters and their personal struggles. The relationships that are formed are that of a parent and child and readers will be able to make certain connections with the characters and their fears. The illustrations are captivating with a plethora of colors and vivid images. The loving relationships between characters is carefully portrayed within the text and the illustrations. Some of the topics such as aging and death may be catered to an older audience, but the story makes a powerful impact in the way families bond together, love one another and create wonderful memories. I look forward to reading this story with my young daughter!
February 28, 2018
The first thing you notice about this book is its quality. It feels nice in your hands. The cover and paper are thick, the construction is excellent, ensuring this book’s longevity.
After my first reading of the The Rabbit and The Shadow I was worried I was missing something in culture translation, as the book’s original language is French. I handed the book off to a friend who knows more about French culture. She found it to be of profoundly deep love.
A Stag receives a little one, the rabbit, and cares for him. The rabbit must grow up someday. On his way to growing up he develops positive personal relationships with friends. They grow up together, they learn, and then they return home.
After reading a second time I could see the expression love and progression of the story better. I saw pieces of my own life as a child and a parent. It is a story that you must feel rather than think about.
I bet your kids will enjoy it.
After my first reading of the The Rabbit and The Shadow I was worried I was missing something in culture translation, as the book’s original language is French. I handed the book off to a friend who knows more about French culture. She found it to be of profoundly deep love.
A Stag receives a little one, the rabbit, and cares for him. The rabbit must grow up someday. On his way to growing up he develops positive personal relationships with friends. They grow up together, they learn, and then they return home.
After reading a second time I could see the expression love and progression of the story better. I saw pieces of my own life as a child and a parent. It is a story that you must feel rather than think about.
I bet your kids will enjoy it.
June 19, 2018
Little stories about different animals, slowly banding together, looking at each other with some questions, but managing compromise, friendship, even love when the need was there. If it sounds mysterious, it is. It begins with a stag finding a small bunny, caring for it, finding love as it grows up. Along comes a cat, a soccer-playing cat! And there also is a soldier at war, a book, and a shadow. Not only mysterious things happen but it can be confusing until it isn’t. Happily ever after does arrive after some discussion and a reunion, plus a surprise. I would love to read this aloud to a young group, to see what they think. Melanie Rutten has written a rambling story that is translated by Sarah Ardizzone. Melanie also illustrated it using watercolors with black outlining in what I am calling “bubbles”. There are a few fully illustrated pages, one especially wonderful one at night.
February 16, 2018
This is a super pretty book, and perfect for reading aloud. There's a lot to unpack in the inevitable repeated readings; a little bit each time. It's sweet and cozy and a little bit scary.
The typeface bothered me. Is this nitpicky? Yes, yes it is, but typeface, and the way that type works with images, matters a great deal in a picture book. The type is SO square, so straight, so seriffed, it just jars against the flowy watercolour of the images.
The typeface bothered me. Is this nitpicky? Yes, yes it is, but typeface, and the way that type works with images, matters a great deal in a picture book. The type is SO square, so straight, so seriffed, it just jars against the flowy watercolour of the images.
October 8, 2023
On ne sait pas lequel des trois albums doit être lu en premier et c'est parfait ainsi avec cette trilogie puisque les histoires sont racontées en parallèle, sans respect pour la chronologie, par bribes, par moment et morceaux de grande tristesse et de grande beauté. Splendide hétérotopie sylvestre aux mille couleurs avec des personnages émouvants : l'Ombre qui danse, le Cerf devenu inquiet et son petit Lapin adorable, sans oublier le Livre qui veut tout savoir et le Chat joueur de foot.
May 12, 2017
Książka zwraca na siebie uwagę niebanalnymi ilustracjami i formą rozpoczęcia opowieści, gdzie wszystkie postacie przestawione są na mini-ilustracjach wprowadzających. Niestety sama treść ociera się o tanią psychologię motywacyjną dla dzieci. Zdecydowanie nie polecam.
January 31, 2018
Beautiful illustrations and part life lesson via several different characters experiencing some anxiety like a Stag who is anxious, a rabbit who is worried and a kid soldier who is angry. All going through a journey to over come their problems.
April 16, 2019
An interesting and unique picture book, dazzling with beautiful water-coloured illustrations throughout and separated into little 'chapters' for early readers. A wonderful, challenging story about the fear or growing up and making strong friendships and families.
April 16, 2020
Modern Fantasy
2nd-4th grade reading level
This story has beautiful illustrations and teaches a few good lessons. However, it is a little hard to read, and the plot is a little confusing. I think that this book might be one that you have to read a couple times through to understand it.
2nd-4th grade reading level
This story has beautiful illustrations and teaches a few good lessons. However, it is a little hard to read, and the plot is a little confusing. I think that this book might be one that you have to read a couple times through to understand it.
November 17, 2023
Rutten's poetic narrative and delicate illustrations form a profound exploration of friendship and self-discovery. 'The Rabbit and the Shadow' is a beautifully crafted tale that gently touches the heart. I loved the story and the visuals of this book they were very heart warming.
January 25, 2019
A strange book with a dream like quality to it.
April 10, 2019
Bardzo ładnie zobrazowana opowieść o dorastaniu i szukaniu siebie, oraz o opiece. Moje dzieci były zachwycone a takiej dyskusji jak przy tej książce to dawno nie było.
September 7, 2019
A tale of growing up and acceptance.
The illustration and storyline was a bit weird, but it was still good / thought provoking.
Reading time around thirty minutes.
The illustration and storyline was a bit weird, but it was still good / thought provoking.
Reading time around thirty minutes.
April 14, 2020
De la poésie, de la beauté. Une l'arme s'est quand même échappé mais pas de tristesse, mais de joie....à découvrir absolument.
December 16, 2022
3,5/5
Adorable
Adorable
May 17, 2025
1.5 arrotondato per difetto
January 29, 2016
Beautiful little book about a rabbit who wants to grow up, an anxious stag, a soldier at war, a cat who keeps having the same dream, a book who wants to know everything, and a shadow. It's sad in a really happy way!
October 16, 2024
We were cleaning the house and I put this in the pile of things to donate elsewhere. I brought it to work and re-read it. I cannot explain it, but I cannot give this book away. It evokes tears, it brings a sorrowful heart, it gives me warmth.
June 15, 2015
Fijn poëtisch verhaal over vriendschap, bij elkaar horen en nooit meer bang zijn. Schitterend geïllustreerd!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews