Problem solving is a good skill to develop

Beatrix Potter’s ability to observe and relate the subtle behaviors of rabbits was expertly documented in this fictional tale, set in a beautifully manicured English garden. Introduced in Potter’s earlier works as a young bunny, this story sees Flopsy all grown up and mother to six little babies. The job of motherhood always challenges one to be resourceful and, in this case, the problem lies in keeping all those little bunny mouths fed. You can be sure that Flopsy will do her utmost to provide for her babies. Without betraying the plot line, there is reason to anticipate a problem arising in the course of rabbits visiting a garden (well…….that’s what rabbits do) but helps comes in the form of a trusted friend who is small of stature but big of heart.

 Yes, Mr. McGregor, the gardener, is the overwhelming problem in this tale. However, the resourceful rabbits and their tiny friend become expert problem solvers and the comical finale reveals more of the gardener’s vulnerable side, unlike his portrayal in Potter’s previous works. Flopsy is a modern mom of sorts; she holds her own in the family dynamic, she works in partnership with Benjamin (the bunnies’ father) to use creative means in acquiring tasty garden treats for her babies and…….when things go wrong, she acts rather than reacts. We knew bunnies were smart!

Good literacy skills instill confidence

Unlike Pooh, Owl and Eeyore who do not seem to demonstrate an appreciation for reading or writing, Rabbit is represented in this series as a competent reader and a capable organizer. He likes to think of his relationship with Christopher Robin as being based on mutual respect; unlike many of his friends in the Hundred Acre Wood, Rabbit exhibits a remarkable level of self-confidence. Nonetheless he seems to realize that he can still benefit from the knowledge of others and intuitively seeks out the wise Owl in matters requiring deep thinking.

 Rabbit is also self-assured when it comes to social matters and he has many social contacts among the lesser known characters in the stories including a hedgehog, a squirrel, mice and several insects. He is credited as being “clever” by Pooh,  and the fact that he clearly “ has Brain” is remarked on by impressionable Piglet. All of this goes to show that it never hurts to develop good literacy skills………..A cute pair of ears won’t get you everywhere in life.

Speak your mind, no matter what

In this tale, for older children, Fiver is introduced to us as being in a perpetual state of nervousness. He is the younger brother of Hazel, one of the story’s more active heros. However, much of the plot evolves around the visions or premonitions that Fiver experiences and the responses he evokes in the other rabbits. He has been described as a mystic, a seer and, in more analytical terms, a plot device. No matter how Fiver is presented to the reader, one basic fact remains true; if he had not chosen to share his visions with others, things would have unfolded very differently.

 It seems fitting that Fiver is depicted as the quiet one, the anxious one, or one who could easily be overlooked. As we learn from the book, Fiver’s visions are usually accurate and his role is therefore pivotal. He is not always scared to explore new territory. Fiver is cautious but he does believe in taking certain chances when the situation demands. Most importantly, he has conviction in his personal gift and is courageous in speaking out when stakes are high.

Being pleasant is even more important than being smart

Elwood P. Dowd, the play’s main character lives by this sentiment and, as we find out, he has learned much about life from his best friend, Harvey. Although Harvey’s words are never directly audible by anyone other than Dowd, we can appreciate that some of life’s best lessons are conveyed in a subtle manner.

There are endless opportunities here for examining how humans frequently evaluate each other, how they accept or decline social norms and how they seek to pursue individual life goals. A lone rabbit succeeds in drawing out a myriad of emotions, with thought-provoking results. In spite of the philosophical material, the comedic approach used in developing the characters enables all family members to enjoy this delightful Pulitzer prizewinning drama.

Harvey is definitely onto something when he espouses the virtue of being pleasant. We can’t bring ourselves to deliver the spoiler……….

Travel broadens the mind

This rabbit embarks on an involuntary voyage of discovery, placing him in contact with people of various means and background and ultimately challenging him to evaluate himself and his perception of life’s journey. The profound themes of life, love and loss are all explored in this modern classic which offers adventure on a grand scale and self-examination in detail.

The concept of love’s infinite power is transmitted in terms applicable to every generation. Whether we have embarked on a physical or emotional journey, or whether we have encouraged others to engage with life through travel, there is a message for everyone here, making it an excellent choice for a read-aloud experience.