Book Review: Rabbit Rabbit by Dori Hillestad Butler and Sunshine Bacon
As a book blogger, I’m always on the lookout for stories that pack an emotional punch while weaving in relatable, contemporary issues. When I came across Rabbit Rabbit, co-authored by Dori Hillestad Butler and Sunshine Bacon, I was immediately intrigued by the novel’s exploration of family dynamics and the distinct voices of its young protagonists, Alice and Bee. The promise of a fresh perspective on the complexities of both kinship and the pandemic drew me in, and I’m delighted to share my thoughts on this captivating read.
At its heart, Rabbit Rabbit is a powerful tale of two cousins grappling with the weight of generational divides and personal histories. Alice, navigating life in liberal Seattle, contrasts sharply with Bee, who feels stifled by the strict conservatism of her upbringing. Their dual narratives blossom with humor, conflict, and the raw tenderness of burgeoning friendship. As the girls unravel the decades-old rift between their families, I found myself reflecting on the nuances of understanding and forgiveness—an exploration that resonates deeply, especially in today’s polarized climate.
The narrative unfolds with masterful pacing, allowing readers to savor the compelling interactions between Alice and Bee. Their relationship is beautifully layered, encompassing the innocence of childhood and the harsh realities they face. Butler and Bacon effectively use their dual points of view to grant equal emotional weight to both girls’ journeys, a storytelling technique that I genuinely appreciated. I felt drawn into Bee’s restrained world of fear, contrasted by Alice’s more progressive yet complicated background—a real reminder of how multifaceted our personal stories can be.
Among the highlights, I was particularly moved by how the novel sensitively depicts themes of loss and end-of-life care. The emotional intensity surrounding the passing of the girls’ grandmother adds depth to the overarching narrative, making the pandemic not just a backdrop, but an integral part of their story. The humor injected throughout balances the heavier themes, creating a reading experience that’s both poignant and engaging.
While the book shines in its multifaceted approach to serious topics—like bodily autonomy and intergenerational trauma—I did feel that certain elements, particularly the character portrayals, sometimes leaned into caricature. The grandfather, for instance, felt less like a fully realized character and more like a convenient plot device. Additionally, while the central mystery surrounding the familial rift was intriguing, the resolution felt somewhat underwhelming and sidestepped at times.
That said, Rabbit Rabbit remains a heartfelt exploration of friendship and identity amidst crisis. I particularly appreciated the nuanced approach to capturing the complexities of family—both the love and the misunderstandings that often coexist.
In conclusion, I believe Rabbit Rabbit will resonate with older middle-grade and young YA readers grappling with their own family dynamics in these ever-shifting times. The book is a thoughtful invitation to explore the intersections of identity, family, and the societal challenges that shape us. My reading experience was enriched by its emotional depth and relatable characters, leaving me hopeful for the future narratives Butler and Bacon will craft together.
Rating: 
.5/5
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