Title: The Secret of Gumper the Rabbit

Author: Cherie Okonski

Genre: Children’s

Gumper is a newborn rabbit born into a large family of rabbits. Gumper is distinguished from his brothers and sisters by his undersized ears. Despite the difference between Gumper and his siblings, his mother stresses his uniqueness. As Gumper grew up, his mother explained how each bunny’s path would take them to the local pet store where a new owner would eventually choose them.

The day is bittersweet when Gumper leaves his mother’s side and he arrives in an alien world known as Shell’s Pet Store. Gumper will need to adapt to his new surroundings as he meets new friends and also learns who to avoid. The big world becomes smaller with each passing day as Gumper’s brothers and sisters find a new home.

Author Cherie Okonski has created a wonderful coming-of-age tale revolving around the animal kingdom. The lively narrative focuses on Gumper and his maturation as he moves from his habitat to Shell’s Pet Store. Cherie Okonski’s vivid animation brilliantly captures the characters and the story’s action. Gumper’s journey is filled with a variety of characters from yapping dogs to smelly cats and also an amiable guinea pig named Oink.

Acceptance emerges as a primary theme in Gumper’s tale. Gumper’s Mother notices immediately how his ears are not like the rest of her children’s. The words she says to Gumper at night signify more than a mother’s love for her child. They allude to Gumper learning to love and accept himself for who he is. Okonski will reinforce this theme with Gumper’s friendship with Oink who is a fellow misfit in the rabbit pen.

A secondary but equally vital theme in Gumper’s story deals with unconditional love. Gumper’s mother not only doesn’t shun her child despite his rare condition, but she also dotes on him. A mother’s love aids Gumper in his early growth and remains with him as he enters the next stage of his life. As Gumper must cope with the loss of his kin, Oink is his constant companion. When Gumper is at his lowest, Oink is there as his friend to buoy his spirits. The author highlights how the love embodied in the maternal bond is equally strong in the bond among friends.

Self-discovery is at the crux of Gumper’s growth from bunny to adult rabbit. The inspiration and encouragement he receives from family and friends allows him to look within and challenge himself.

In the modern world, differences have been used as a cause for division. Gumper’s tale functions as an allegory for embracing differences, no matter how big or small they are.

Cherie Okonski has written an underdog story that is full of heart and spirit. An additional chapter detailing Gumper’s interactions with his brothers and sisters would make the book more well-rounded.

The Secret of Gumper the Rabbit asserts itself as a more nuanced take on “The Ugly Duckling”. Gumper is an identifiable protagonist waiting for his moment to shine. Cherie Okonski has penned and drawn a winning book that will resonate with kids and adults.

This Editorial Review was written by the Book Review Directory staff. To receive a similarly honest, professional review for one of your own books, click here.