The Adventures of Homer the Rabbit

These stories were written many years ago for my two favorite teachers – my daughters Paula Louise Ficara and Kristen Marie Ficara. Also, special thanks to Caroline Durst. Her friendship and editing skills are so deeply appreciated. I had drawn the simple line drawings, but my skill as an artist could never have achieved what Ayin Visitacion did with the full color illustrations. I am awe struck by her talent. She was able to see right into my mind and heart and create beautiful renderings of the characters in the book. Note to parents: I envisioned this book as a read-aloud book that would both give pleasure and stimulate conversation with your children about important subjects. Table of Contents Homer Finds a New Home........................................................................ page 2 Strangers in Timbercreek Forest............................................................ page 13 What’s the Matter with Homer............................................................... page 24 Homer the Rabbit and the Wolf............................................................... page 33 Homer learns that going out on his own doesn’t mean he has to be alone. He learns that others don’t have to be like him to be his friends and help him. He learns that “home” is where you make it. The people teach their child about the forest and the beings who live there. Homer and his friends learn about people and learn wonderful things about themselves. They learn that everyone in the forest has an important job in caring for Earth. Homer feels homesick, but is embarrassed and ashamed. He learns he doesn’t have to hide his feelings from friends. He learns that love doesn’t go away, and family is always important. Homer learns that loss can lead to greater gain. He learns that what you are afraid of can be the best thing for you. He makes new friends through unexpected circumstances. Characters Homer, a young Cottontail Rabbit Mother, a Cottontail Rabbit Terrance, an Eastern Black Racer Snake Greta, an American Red Squirrel Jason, a Northern Cardinal Marla, a North American Beaver Archie, a Bombus Bumblebee Rusty, a Colorado Chipmunk Daddy, Mama, and Pixie – a Human Family His Majesty, a big-antlered Stag Zenith, a Timber Wolf Jasmine, a Timber Wolf Johnna, a young Human Girl Gram, Johnna’s Grandmother Grace, a Cottontail Rabbit