A Little Bit of Winter

In this endearing tale of friendship between a rabbit and a hedgehog, the author creates a satisfying circular story, the final page ending with the sentiments of the first. It is time for Hedgehog to hibernate, and he sleepily asks Rabbit about the nature of winter. On being told it is hard, white and cold, Hedgehog asks his friend to save him a little bit on it. But Rabbit is 'so full of forget', that writing a reminder on a tree trunk seems a good plan. Vital words from the message are later eaten by the hungry rabbit, but nevertheless, he does remember to preserve something of winter for his prickly friend. Lots of quality direct speech between the two creatures, and Riddell's expressive line and muted colours add vitality to his humorous tale.