Families who loved Rabbit and the Motorbike by Kate Hoefler often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child is processing the quiet, heavy stillness that follows the loss of a grandparent, teacher, or older mentor. It is particularly effective for children who feel stuck in their grief or are afraid that moving forward means forgetting the person they lost. Through the story of a homebody Rabbit and his adventurous friend Dog, the narrative explores how we can inherit the bravery of those who are gone. While the story centers on the death of a friend, it is fundamentally about the beauty of the world and the courage it takes to explore it. The lyrical text and expansive illustrations provide a safe space for children ages 3 to 8 to discuss big feelings like loneliness and anxiety. It is a beautiful choice for parents who want to show their children that while grief is a long road, it can eventually lead us to new, wonderful places.