For young readers who always want to know why? . . . especially when there isn't an easy answer.
An ALA Notable Children's Book
A Capitol Choices Noteworthy Title
Two-time Caldecott and Geisel Honoree Laura Vaccaro Seeger weaves a simple story about the unfailingly curious Rabbit-- and his patient friend Bear, who always answers his questions.
Bear just wants to water his flowers, but Rabbit needs to know: why? Bear is looking forward to a peaceful night of stargazing, but all Rabbit cares about is: why?
As spring passes into summer, and Rabbit continues to wonder why?, detailed, lush watercolor illustrations encourage the reader to figure out the reason for each question. Over and over, Bear gives the best answers he can-- until, in the depths of winter, he has no answer to give.
This simple story is a reminder that even when there are no answers for our questions, we can count on trust and love-- and sometimes, that's more than enough.
★ "One of Seeger's great talents is distilling a child's concerns to their essence. . . . This celebration of friendship, which Seeger moves seamlessly through the seasons, gives children the opportunity to intuit that, while things change, there is also stability in love and relationships. A poignant ending reiterates that bond, which will be touching for children who like to ask plenty of questions and for the adults on whose laps they sit."—Booklist, Starred Review
★ A patient bear deftly answers most of a childlike rabbit’s many 'whys.' . . . Not all questions can be answered, but the communion of friendship lights much of life’s path."—Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review
"a rich one-on-one reading experience that will be particularly resonate for any adult who has cared for a child in the 'why' phase."—School Library Journal
"The soft, dappled watercolors and furrily sketched linework make for utterly huggable illustrations, with the big cinnamon bear a velvety, comforting presence as the wee white bunny gambols lamblike through the pages. . . . its endearing charm will ensure solid lapsit cuddles."—The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books
★ "This reassuring tale, rendered via watercolors on a lush, green palette, isn't afraid to ask the hard questions (or in this case, one big question), suggesting that love can persist in the face of loss. Even young readers who have yet to experience loss will find resonance in this quiet story in which answers may not come easy—but steadfastness does."—BookPage, Starred Review
★ "Seeger's prose is sparse, but the story's impact is vast. Her beautifully detailed watercolor illustrations feature expertly blended soft colors, creating an inviting trek through woodlands--the lush textures of grass, wonderfully puffy clouds and snow make the feel of nature almost palpable. And bear and rabbit each exhibit extensive emotions through subtle, soulful facial expressions. While Seeger's animals may not always know the answer to the age-old question, readers are sure to find plenty of reasons to adore this charming picture book. An excellent option for story time, Seeger's Why? invites audiences of any age to interact with bear and rabbit as well as their rich habitat. Why? It's delightful. 'That's why.'"—Shelf Awareness, Starred Review
