The Hare-Shaped Hole

The Hare-Shaped Hole is a beautiful and touching picture book that explores themes of grief and loss. Hertle and Bertle were best friends forever until Hertle disappeared. Bertle pleads with the hole to bring his friend back, but hope is lost until Gerda the kindly bear finds him. The text is powerful and moving, and the illustrations are warm and sensitive. The book can be used to start a conversation about death and grief and is a gift for a grieving friend.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 32 pages
Publication date: 09 March 2023
Publisher: Frances Lincoln Publishers Ltd

The Hare-Shaped Hole is a captivating and heartwarming picture book that delves gently into the realms of grief and loss. Written by Joe Coelho, the esteemed Children's Laureate, and illustrated by Thomas Docherty, this tale follows the inseparable friendship between Hertle, a turtle, and Bertle, a hare. Their bond was unbreakable, and they were best friends forever, always found together. However, their journey takes an unexpected turn when Hertle suddenly disappears, leaving behind a gaping hole in Bertle's heart.

Unable to comprehend his loss, Bertle desperately tries to fill the void with his memories of Hertle. But the hole remains stubbornly empty, mocking his sorrow. It seems like hope is lost until Gerda, a kind and gentle bear, comes to his aid. She explains that Bertle must embrace his memories and fill the hole with them, allowing Hertle's spirit to live on.

As Bertle begins to pour his heart out, filling the hole with cherished moments and memories, he slowly begins to feel a glimmer of comfort. The powerful and moving text, penned by children's author and poet John Dougherty, is perfectly complemented by Thomas Docherty's warm illustrations, creating a thoughtful and sensitive approach to this difficult topic.

This moving picture book appeals to both children and adults, serving as a gentle tool for initiating conversations about death and grief. It provides solace and reassurance to those who have experienced the loss of a pet or loved one, reminding them that healing is a gradual process and that things do indeed get better with time. Bertle's journey to acceptance is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of love and memory.

In conclusion, The Hare-Shaped Hole is a beautiful and poignant exploration of grief and mourning that will touch the hearts of readers of all ages. Through its tender narrative and captivating illustrations, this book offers solace, understanding, and hope, reminding us that even in the face of loss, the bonds of friendship and love can endure.

Weight: 234g
Dimension: 235 x 277 x 7 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780711276055