Bunns Rabbit
Written and illustrated by Alan Barillaro
Candlewick Press
Ages 8-12
Available October 7th, 2025

Although the superstitious elders of the warren fear newborn Bunns’ peculiarly small ears, thanks to the loving heart song of her mother—thump, thump, thump—Bunns feels no different than the rest of her long-eared family. But when a flutter of Monarchs lures Bunns into the deep, dark forest, she comes face to face with the fiery Spirit Fox, feared by all. Legend says the Spirit Fox has the power to grant wishes, but after seeing Bunns in its presence, the other rabbits decide that she is the “Bad Omen,” and banish her from the meadow. Determined to save her place in the burrow and stay with her family, young Bunns sets out to find the fox again, longing for the wish of, well, long ears. As she wanders beyond the meadow, Bunns befriends Bee, a gentle hummingbird, and Loon, whose cold heart she’s determined to warm. Together, the trio set off on a journey full of myth, mystery, and riddles. Filled with bravery (and a belly of clover!), Bunns is willing to do whatever it takes to keep her family and home safe.

​Academy Award-winning writer & director Alan Barillaro is no stranger to the allure of a story rooted in the courage and curiosity of young animal creatures. With the adorable Pixar short Piper under his belt, it comes as no surprise that Barillaro’s new book Bunns Rabbit is just as moving; this time combining that heartstrings-will-be-tugged narrative with an action-packed fantastical journey. There are moments of despair for the trio, plenty of obstacles, and times when Bunn loses hope, but nevertheless, she persists. Complete with rich, hand-painted illustrations and some truly wonderful poetic moments, Bunns Rabbit is the perfect blend of graphic novel and parable for both children and adults; it’s a timeless exploration of family, friendship, and, most importantly, self-love. Big ears or small.