Song of the Jackalope

"Song of the Jackalope" draws on the image of a legendary animal whose history as a myth is not fully known. By one account, the first white man who claimed to see a jackalope was an old western trapper. As the legend grew, there were stories of cowboys hearing humanlike voices singing to them from lonely hillsides or prairies at night. The melodies, it was said, were those of the jackalope, a creature of remarkable vocal abilities and very fleet of foot. Now the legendary "critter" comes alive in an unusual book that is written as juvenile fiction, but offers adult appreciation as well. Its setting is in the picturesque landscape of the southwest; there are 76 hand drawn illustrations that bring the scenes and characters to life.

The story itself centers on a handicapped young jackalope named Molly who undergoes a series of surprising and revealing adventures. Possessed of a gifted singing voice, she is befriended by Grandal, a shadowy old jack rabbit of mystical origin. Other characters of interest enter the plot, and Molly finds herself increasingly challenged by unusual circumstances, moving to a finale which is unexpected but uplifting in emotion and spirit. Decidedly alegorical, there are some humorous episodes and character traits that most people will recognize. Fifth grade to adult.