In Rabbitville.  I have owned this book since I was a little girl. It is the only Easter/rabbit book I ever remember reading with my Mom each spring. When I was learning to read, there didn’t seem to be as many seasonal picture books as there are today.

Honestly, I don’t remember where or when she got it for me. It’s been on my bookshelves in 4 different houses I have lived in. 

My copy is really tattered. Some pages are literally ripped and taped together, and the tape has now browned. Some pages are just ripped. It doesn’t have a publication date in the front of my copy, but I learned that it was written by Emma Serl in 1930. That was the same year my Dad was born. My sweet little rabbit book is 96 years old. My copy looks and smells old, and I love it that way!

It’s a collection of short chapters about siblings Johnny and Jenny Rabbit, their family, and their neighbors. The illustrations are just darling. 

There is a big difference between the content of old and modern picture books. Most written today have a lesson learned and a complex text. Books written years ago are simple stories about everyday life that feel nurturing and cozy. In Rabbitville, Johnny and Jenny visit a bakery, Johnny gets his shoe fixed by a shoemaker, and Policeman Rabbit helps the siblings cross the street safely. It’s pure bliss!

Easter is this Sunday. Spring is here, whether the weather is cooperating where you live or not. I think the Easter Bunny knows how simple and charming this book is, 96 years and counting. If he leaves me a chocolate bunny and I have In Rabbitville in hand, it’s going to be a beautiful day. 

To those who celebrate, Happy Easter!