Night of the Living Cuddle Bunnies

August 1, 2017

Gr 4-6-Christmas is coming, and Devin's wish list is short: an iPhone. His bratty kid sister Abby, however, is demanding the most popular toy of the season: the FAB Cuddle Bunny. The animatronic stuffed animal is completely sold out, though, so despite Abby's tantrums, Devin is convinced she won't get one. Then, an unusual neighbor moves in across the street. Even before Herb Dorfman comes over for dinner, Devin and his cousin Tommy are convinced that he is a warlock. Things take a twisted turn when the boys catch him using a wand and toiling over a cauldron with a vial of potion. The next day, Abby receives her very own Cuddle Bunny from Herb, and Devin is shocked and horrified when he begins to see the toy coming to life. Soon, the town is under siege from these mischievous robotic rabbits, and Devin and Tommy become caught up in a series of battles with both Herb and the bunnies that escalate to an all-out stuffed animal war in the middle of the shopping mall food court. The action is steady despite a hasty ending, and the dialogue is sharp. VERDICT A mildly violent and funny read that's more silly than scary. An additional purchase.-Whitney LeBlanc, KIPP New Orleans Schools, LA

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