Published by Charlesbridge

Summary:  Butternut is part of a large rabbit family that lives in a burrow in Milkweed Meadow.  The rabbits keep pretty much to themselves, learning storytelling and safety skills from their mother and grandmother.  A chance encounter with a young robin named Piper, however, expands Butternut’s horizons, and she finds herself overcoming her many anxieties to go on adventures with Piper and a young deer named Winsome that they befriend when Winsome breaks her leg in the rabbits’ burrow.  The title’s remarkable rescue involves some orphaned coyote pups, an operation that Butternut advocates for even though they will grow up to become predators, and one that ultimately involves all the animals of the meadow.  Butternut’s newfound courage and sense of connection to other species inspire her mother and grandmother to put aside some of their own fears and to open themselves up to the meadow community.  192 pages; grades 3-6.

Pros:  This beautifully written and illustrated animal story shows the power of storytelling, community, and courage with enough humor to keep the messages light.  It would make an excellent elementary read-aloud or book club selection.

Cons:  I wish there had been more illustrations by Caldecott medalist Doug Salati.