The Forgotten Rabbit

Rabbits are the third most popular house pet, with more than six million rabbits in the United States. A baby rabbit, purchased as an impulsive Easter gift, is soon forgotten by the family’s children as they pursue other activities. As she grows up, her cage is moved outside, and she is rarely tended. Then, one night a girl called Rosalita takes her out of her cage, telling her that she has a new home, one in which she will never again be forgotten. Enjoying love, care, and a new name—Bella—she takes to the fun of agility lessons. Bella wins first prize in a rabbit agility contest—jumping with joy into the always-loving arms of Rosalita.

Written so that children five and up can immediately grasp the story, this children’s picture book offers an insight into the frequent fate of rabbits purchased on impulse, as well as the proper care of a rabbit as a companion animal. The 24 pages of color illustrations depict Bella’s journey with beautiful detail. The story is suspenseful, and, in the end, joyful. The language is active with evocative descriptions. The final page of the book offers information for parents and other adults and lists online resources.