Into the Thicket
Welcome to Into the Thicket by Gail Kuhnlein Book Tour hosted by The Children’s Book Review.
About the Book
Inspired by a true story, Into the Thicket begins 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.
Review of Into the Thicket
Awww… what a precious little gem of a book! I’ll admit it—I picked this one up because there were bunnies on the cover (four of them, to be exact 🐰), but I had no idea how much heart was waiting inside. Based on a real-life adventure (the very best kind), this story is all about compassion, courage, and small acts of kindness. When Patrick discovers an injured baby bunny, he sets off to get help from an animal rescue—though it means facing a big fear along the way. The illustrations are absolutely lovely and perfectly complement the story, making it a joy for littles to follow along. I’ll stop right there—no spoilers, even if you’re twitching your nose at me. Just know this sweet story gently reminds us that even the smallest kindness can make a big difference in the world.
Check out my Instagram post to find a fun book activity – and you can have your own baby bunny to keep you company while reading this heartfelt story.
I received a copy of this book to share my opinion.
Giveaway for Into the Thicket
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.
Into the Thicket: Book GiveawayClick here for the entry form.
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.
Website– Instagram – Bluesky – YouTube – Facebook
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 more picture books.
Into the Thicket Book Tour
Follow along on the book tour hosted by The Children’s Book Review to see what others are saying!
| Monday, November 24, 2025 The Children’s Book Review Book Review |
| Tuesday, November 25, 2025 Crafty Moms Share Book Review |
| Monday, December 1, 2025 Deliciously Savvy Book Review |
| Tuesday, December 2, 2025 Life is What It’s Called Author Interview |
| Thursday, December 4, 2025 The Fairview Review Book Review |
| Friday, December 5, 2025 Country Mamas With Kids Book Review |
| Tuesday, December 9, 2025 icefairy’s Treasure Chest Book Review |
| Thursday, December 11, 2025 Confessions of a Book Addict Book Spotlight |
| Friday, December 12, 2025 Un Viaje en Libro Book Review |
| Monday, December 15, 2025 Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers Book Review |
| Tuesday, December 16, 2025 Q&As with Deborah Kalb Author Interview |
| Thursday, December 18, 2025 One More Exclamation Book Activity (click here) |
| Friday, December 19, 2025 @nissa_the.bookworm Instagram Post |
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