Published by Simon & Schuster, 2019.

Bernard is not like all the other bunnies. Sure, he can twitch his nose, eat grass, dig holes and look cute like the rest of them but at night, when the other bunnies are dreaming about carrots, Bernard dreams of disco.

To begin with, he keeps his love of disco secret. He hasn’t got the confidence to be himself. He blends in and conforms – behaving as bunnies are expected to behave. However, before long, the deception and secrecy begin to weigh terribly on Bernard’s shoulders. He reaches his limit when the snack van serves up bunny poo baps as their lunchtime special (rabbits eating their own faeces is apparently a thing!); he can no longer pretend to love all things bunny.

Bernard begins to make small changes: bouncing when the other rabbits hop, hopping when the other rabbits bounce. At night time he sneaks out of the warren and disco dances in the moonlight. Finally, he has the courage to come out and show the other bunnies who he really is: a disco dancing, roller booting, sequin clad, rainbow rabbit. Initially his revelation is met with shock but soon the others are inspired to be themselves too.

As usual, Kate Hindley’s illustrations are utterly delightful. Her cast of rabbits are cute and expressive. Bernard is bursting with personality and he can definitely rock a roller disco outfit complete with sparkly cape and rainbow accessories! The book’s holographic foiled cover sparkles with glitter ball goodness.

Be More Bernard is such a terrific book: glorious, life-affirming and fun. It has positive messages about acceptance, community and individuality. We can all learn from Bernard; life is better and we are happier when we’re true to ourselves. Let’s all be more Bernard.

Rating: 💙💙💙💙💙

Suitable for children aged 3+

Thank you to Simon & Schuster for sending me this book to review.