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Hello there, readers!
Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers. Today, we're joining The Children's Book Review on their current AWARENESS TOUR starring a storybook inspired by true events that will touch your heart. It reminds us that no matter how big, no matter how small, EVERYONE can help, and everyone NEEDS help at some point in their lives. It's up to us to take those moments by the reigns and make them shine.
Ladies and gents, let's get this book party started, shall we? Please make way on your TBR and your bookshelf for today's featured title...
Written by Gail Kuhnlein
Illustrated by John Megahan
Ages: 4-7 | 60 Pages
9798990747807
BookBaby (2025)
About the book...
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.
This gorgeously illustrated and heart warming book shares the story of one little bunny in desperate need of help, and the little boy that not only noticed, but to the time and gathered the courage to get the help he needed.
Patrick and Ben were brothers, and like they tend to do, ragging on each other, and instilling unnecessary fears in the other is a part of their everyday world. When Patrick needs to get help for the injured baby bunny, those fears kick in because the fastest way to get to assistance was by going INTO THE THICKET. Could he do it? After all, Ben said their were goblins and all other manner of creatures in their waiting to gobble him up. I mean, a bunny would be an additional tasty morsel, and like tangling the proverbial carrot in front of a bunny. But Patrick took one look at that little soul in his hands, and knew he had to do for the bunny's sake. I totally wanted to give him a hug for that maneuver, but I digress. The story doesn't end once the Thicket does...
Reaching the other side is about getting one step closer to conquering his fear, but also one step closer to saving the little kit. Thankfully, his neighbour happens to run a wildlife rescue, and is well versed in assisting little critters that get into situations they can't get out of themselves, but it's not all about her, and she readily admitted that. It's a team effort, and the newest honorary member of that team is Patrick because of his kind heart, his responsible nature, and his desire to see this little one healthy again. I'm not gonna lie, it's touch and go, but I will say this take on the story has a happy ending that not only sees the bunny hop another day, but reminds us that while our help may be needed, wild animals should be returned to the wilds whenever possible.
A lovingly told tale that I've no doubt will inspire a new generation of animal helpers of all ages, this is a book I can see in both home and school libraries as both a story to share, and a source of information. When taken with the beautiful illustrations, it certainly leaves its footprints on the heart, from the gorgeous full color scenes to the whimsically placed wording encouraging you to explore each page to its fullest. A great read for the small to the tall, and a story that I hope you'll check out for yourself and those you care for!
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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.
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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.
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GIVEAWAY
Enter for the chance to win one of three signed hardcover copies of Into the Thicket, each accompanied by a set of custom stickers featuring illustrations from the book. One grand prize winner will receive a signed hardcover of Into the Thicket with an adorable rabbit companion stuffie and a set of custom stickers, plus a signed paperback of How Happy Is a Lark? along with a singing lark stuffie.
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Special thanks to Bianca of The Children's Book Review for the chance to bring this title to you and for the ecopy for review! (THANKS!) This post is sponsored by Gail Kuhnlein. The review and opinions expressed in this post are based on my personal view. For more information on this author, or the publisher, feel free to click through the links above. Be sure to check out the rest of the tour for more bookish fun!
TOUR SCHEDULE
Monday, November 24, 2025
Book Review of Into the Thicket
Tuesday, November 25, 2025
Book Review for Into the Thicket
Monday, December 1, 2025
Book Review for Into the Thicket
Tuesday, December 2, 2025
Author Interview with Gail Kuhnlein
Thursday, December 4, 2025
Book Review for Into the Thicket
Friday, December 5, 2025
Book Review for Into the Thicket
Tuesday, December 9, 2025
Book Review for Into the Thicket
Thursday, December 11, 2025
Book Spotlight on Into the Thicket
Friday, December 12, 2025
Book Review for Into the Thicket
Monday, December 15, 2025
Book Review for Into the Thicket
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
Author Interview with Gail Kuhnlein
Thursday, December 18, 2025
Book Activity for Into the Thicket
Friday, December 19, 2025
Instagram Post about Into the Thicket
Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!
