Rabbit's Bad Habits

Rabbit's Bad Habits

book

2021, Children's Books, Growing Up & Facts of Life

WISE
84%

WISE Score

4.7

Amazon

A grumpy rabbit and a patient bear compete, clash, and eventually become friends in this genuinely funny early chapter book series.

Amazon4.7
Common Sense Media

Where to Read

Amazon
Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Barnes & Noble
Libby
Libby

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Screenwise Verdict

This is the kind of chapter book that actually delivers on its promise—funny, sweet without being syrupy, and genuinely useful for talking about friendship dynamics. Julian Gough's writing has personality (Rabbit's grumpiness feels real, not cartoonish), and Jim Field's illustrations add charm without overwhelming the text.

The friendship arc is refreshingly honest: Rabbit doesn't suddenly become cheerful, and Bear doesn't stop being patient. They just learn to appreciate what the other brings. It's the kind of book that makes kids laugh while sneaking in some emotional intelligence.

At 4.7 stars on Amazon and multiple awards, it's clearly resonating with families. The series format means if your kid loves it, you've got more in the pipeline. Solid choice for bedtime reading or independent readers ready to level up.

Age Fit

Ideal for ages 6-9, especially kids transitioning from picture books to chapter books. The illustrations provide visual breaks, the humor keeps them engaged, and the 100-150 page length is manageable without being intimidating.

WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
88

Models the messy, realistic process of friendship formation between two very different personalities. Rabbit is grumpy and competitive, Bear is kind and patient—and they work through conflict without sugarcoating emotions. The humor comes from character quirks rather than meanness, and the resolution feels earned rather than preachy. Emotionally healthy without being saccharine.

Imaginative
76

Clever premise (competitive snowman-building, avalanches, a hungry wolf) with Jim Field's illustrations adding visual personality. The humor is playful and the animal characters have distinct voices. Not groundbreaking in concept, but the execution is fresh enough to keep kids engaged. Invites kids to think about how different personalities can complement each other.

Safe
95

Completely age-appropriate chapter book with no content concerns. The 'hungry wolf' scenario is handled with humor rather than genuine threat. No scary imagery, no inappropriate themes. The 'bad habits' in the title refer to Rabbit's grumpiness and competitiveness—mild behavioral issues that get resolved through friendship. Neil Gaiman endorsed it as bedtime-story material, which tells you everything.

Enriching
82

Genuinely funny (won the Roald Dahl Funny Prize illustrator award) while teaching social-emotional lessons about accepting differences, managing competition, and forming unlikely friendships. The chapter-book format with illustrations is perfect for transitioning readers. Kids learn that grumpy people can still be good friends, and that patience pays off. Multiple awards including IBPA Benjamin Franklin Gold suggest it delivers real value.

Parent Info
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Why It Might Be Great

  • Actually funny—Neil Gaiman says it makes you want to send kids to bed early so you can read it to them
  • Models real friendship dynamics where different personalities learn to appreciate each other without one having to completely change
  • Perfect bridge book for kids moving from picture books to chapter books, with illustrations throughout
  • Won multiple awards including the IBPA Benjamin Franklin Gold and named to Kirkus Best Middle-Grade Books
  • Rabbit's grumpiness and competitiveness are relatable kid emotions handled with humor rather than lectures
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What to Watch For

  • Rabbit is genuinely grumpy and competitive—some sensitive kids might need reassurance that it's okay to have these feelings sometimes
  • The 'hungry wolf' subplot is played for laughs but very young or anxious readers might need a heads-up it's not actually scary
  • This is book 1 in a series, so expect requests for more

Conversation Starters

  • "Why do you think Rabbit is so grumpy at the beginning? Have you ever felt that way?"
  • "Bear is really patient with Rabbit even when he's being difficult. When is it easy to be patient with friends, and when is it hard?"
  • "Who do you relate to more—Rabbit or Bear? Why?"
  • "What made Rabbit and Bear finally become friends? What does it take to be friends with someone really different from you?"

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