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Bunny the Brave War Horse: Based on a True Story

The grim realities of WWI are softened a bit by focusing on the true story of the relationship between Bunny, a magnificent, reddish-brown horse with long ears, and two brothers, Thomas and “Bud” Dundas.  All three were among those sent to Europe as part of the Canadian Field Artillery.  Bud rode Bunny as they helped deliver messages quickly, carry wounded soldiers to safety, pull ambulances and carts with supplies and food, and haul cannons and big guns to the battlefield.  They endured poisonous gas attacks, drenching rain, and exploding bombs and grenades.  Bunny showed courage and loyalty under challenging conditions.  When Bud was killed in battle, Tom rode Bunny until the end of the war.  Tom returned to Toronto, but by the time he raised enough money to ship Bunny back, Bunny had been sold and could not be found.  Red poppies fill the fields on the Western Front and are now a symbol commemorating soldiers who died.  The artwork is large and uncomplicated.  It is a good match with the accurate but brief descriptions of a dangerous time in history.