HERE WITH ME
by David Walker ; illustrated by David Walker
A tiny rabbit questions their place in the world.
Holding hands with a larger, bluish-gray rabbit (presumably a parent) on the title page, the little flop-eared protagonist goes on to wonder “who I would choose to be / if I could wish a wish / to be a different kind of me.” The rabbit then imagines bounding through the forest as a fox, growling like a bear, and sneaking (and squeaking) like a mouse. “I might choose a zebra. / Wouldn’t that be fun? / I’d munch on the grass, / then I’d run, run, run!” But out of all the possibilities, the rabbit always returns home, proudly declaring, “Though if I had a choice / of just who I’d be, / I wouldn’t change a thing, / so you’d be here with me.” The rhymes are steady and gentle, set against smudgy, dreamlike backdrops in a palette of lush greens and warm, toasty yellows. The rabbit appears envious of others’ abilities but always circles back to a connection with family. It’s not a tale of self-acceptance or identity but rather unconditional love. (This book was reviewed digitally.)
Cozy, charming, simple.
(Picture book. 2-5)