Have you ever encountered a wounded wild animal? Do you know how you can help? Join young boy Patrick's adventure Into the Thicket as he tries to save an injured baby rabbit. Enter to win a signed copy of this beautiful book by Gail Kuhnlein, together with custom stickers, cute stuffies and more!
My Review:
Featuring relatable characters and artistic drawings, Into the Thicket is a cozy read that both inspires and informs, sparking discussion about courage, compassion, friendship, wildlife rehabilitation and conservation.
When trying to retrieve his football in the yard next door, Patrick discovers a tiny bunny with blood-stained fur. He immediately decides to seek help from Felice, a family friend who specializes in rescuing injured animals. The fastest route to Felice's house is through the tall and thick tangle of thicket that terrifies Patrick with darkness and possible presence of snarling goblins. Will Patrick walk through the thicket safely? Will the little rabbit survive the injury?
This is a touching story about saving a life and showing respect for nature. Empowered by his love and compassion for the rabbit, Patrick gathers the courage to overcome his fear about the thicket. As he frequents Felice's wildlife rescue center, he not only gains knowledge about how to treat and take care of an injured animal, but also gains confidence and independence. What's noteworthy is his unintentional but positive influence on his big brother Ben, who appears to be less sensitive or caring at the beginning. Ben's transformation means a lot to Patrick.
Along with Patrick, young readers learn about Eastern Cottontail's natural habitat, their predators, and favorite food. They also learn that love sometimes involves letting go. It's important to keep wild animals wild and free. The book's back matter suggests steps to take and resources to contact when an injured or orphaned animal is spotted. It includes tips for protecting rabbit nests from unwanted disruptions as well.
Vibrant and evocative, the book's amazing artwork brings to life the vulnerable yet irresistibly cute baby bunny, melting the reader's heart. With vivid details, it captures the joy of giving care, the beauty and serenity of nature, and the emotional growth of both Patrick and Ben.
Full of heart and useful information, Into the Thicket makes a worthy addition to any family's library, fostering a lifelong love of nature and wildlife.
About the Book:
Ages: 4-7 | 60 Pages
Publisher: BookBaby (2025) | ISBN: 979-8990747807
Inspired by a true story, Into the Thicket begins with the moment the author’s young son discovered an injured baby rabbit — an encounter that sparked a heartfelt journey of care and connection.
This tender picture book follows a boy and the rabbit he hopes to help, gently exploring themes of compassion, courage, love, and the bittersweet beauty of letting go. It invites young readers to develop empathy and a deeper appreciation for the natural world, showing how even the smallest acts of kindness can ripple through a great, big world.
Featuring stunning watercolor illustrations by acclaimed Ann Arbor artist John Megahan, Into the Thicket is a story families will return to again and again. A portion of all proceeds benefits wildlife rehabilitation and conservation.
Purchase links: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | BookBaby | Bookshop.org
About the Author:
Gail Kuhnlein has been writing stories since she was young. Her first self-published picture book, How Happy Is a Lark?, made her as happy as a, well you know. She’s just as excited about her new picture book, Into the Thicket.
Gail majored in journalism and public relations at Michigan State University. She worked in the field for over 30 years, most recently at the University of Michigan’s Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. People she met at UM were instrumental in publishing her picture books, a long-awaited dream come true.
After surviving multiple life-threatening complications following heart valve surgery in 2022, including several weeks in an induced coma, Gail considers every day as “bonus time.” She savors life with her husband, Tim, just outside Ann Arbor, Michigan. They adore their two adult sons, Davey and Trevor, and bunk with the sweetest kitties in the galaxy.
For more information, visit authorgailkuhnlein.com. Follow on Instagram, Bluesky, YouTube and Facebook.
About the Illustrator:
John Megahan’s lifelong passion for art and nature has shaped his remarkable career. Growing up, he spent countless hours outdoors exploring and sketching the natural world around him. In college, he combined his interests by studying biology and art, which led him to the field of scientific illustration — a perfect blend of his interests.
After college, he worked as a freelance illustrator, developing a large clientele that included governmental and advertising agencies, universities, publishers, and more. After freelancing, John became the senior scientific illustrator at the University of Michigan’s Museum of Zoology, where he continues to work today. Alongside his illustration work, he has enjoyed teaching art and biology, inspiring others with his knowledge and enthusiasm.
John’s other children’s picture book credits include W is for Waves, An Ocean Alphabet, Thumping on Trees, and The Red Fox and Johnny Valentine’s Blue-Speckled Hound. He looks forward to creating more wildlife and nature-inspired artwork and illustrating many more picture books.
For more information, visit johnmegahan.com.
One lucky Grand Prize winner will receive a Into the Thicket prize pack!
It includes:
- A signed hardcover copy of Into The Thicket with a companion rabbit stuffie
- A signed paperback copy of How Happy is a Lark? with a companion singing lark stuffie
- Custom stickers
Three additional winners will each receive a signed hardcover copy of Into the Thicket and custom stickers!
Into the Thicket: Book GiveawayDisclosure: This post is sponsored by Gail Kuhnlein. All views and opinions expressed are my own. icefairy's Treasure Chest is not responsible for winner selection or prize fulfillment.
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