That Rabbit Belongs to Emily Brown

That Rabbit Belongs to Emily Brown by Cressida Cowell
Illustrated by Neal Layton
2007

     Emily has an old stuffed rabbit called Stanley.  He's her best friend and together they embark on great adventures that Emily imagines.  The problem is that the Queen has become obsessed with Stanley, and she really wants him.  She send all sorts of emissaries -who keep interrupting Emily's adventures- to offer gifts in exchange for Stanley.  But Emily makes it very clear she won't trade him at all!  The story builds up, as well as the ammounts offered in exchanged for Stanley.  The repetitious pattern of the emissaries statements from the Queen to Emily are fun to read aloud and to build up the new item added at the end of each list.
     Emily is a very likable character.  She's creative, resolute, and brave.  The way she resolves the conflict is very sweet.  I also, really enjoyed the illustration which are a very interesting mix textures and mediums.  Let's just say I'm really glad to see there are more Emily Brown books published after this one that I can now go check out.