Local writer celebrates her rabbits in new book

Local author Bunny Michael celebrates the stories of her beloved rabbits in the newly published book “Hello Higher Self,” marking a significant addition to her artistic journey.

Short Summary:

• Bunny Michael launches her new book that focuses on self-love and acceptance.
• The event features a book signing and a meet-and-greet session.
• “Hello Higher Self” is a mixture of advice, exercises, and personal experiences.

In the cozy ambiance of Rough Draft, an astounding event took place as local writer Bunny Michael introduced her latest creation: “Hello Higher Self.” With her vast Instagram following of 230k avid readers, Bunny’s venture into the literary world was marked by an evening filled with conversation, book signings, and an inspiring meet-and-greet session. Fans eager to dive into her philosophy of radical self-love could purchase copies of the book right at the event.

Bunny Michael, a multi-disciplinary artist acclaimed for her unique perspective and uplifting messages, brings an immersive guide through “Hello Higher Self.” This book can be seen as a continuation of her work that parallels the wisdom of Yung Pueblo and Nicole LePera. Bunny’s journey, filled with personal challenges—from grappling with queer identity to confronting societal pressures—serves as a testament to her message of self-acceptance.

“Building from Bunny’s viral memes, Hello Higher Self is a self-care manifesto,” says Rough Draft. “It’s about shifting our perspectives from the Learned Hierarchal Beliefs (LHBs) we’ve internalized to the innate goodness and worthiness of our Higher Selves.”

At the launch event, attendees got the first taste of Bunny’s new book, which dives into eighteen essential areas of life where LHBs are most prevalent. These areas range from creativity and work to relationships and sexual pleasure. Bunny’s amalgamation of meditative advice, practical exercises, and heartfelt personal examples provides readers with a unique journey toward self-love and acceptance.

Exploring the Life of Bunny Michael

Bunny Michael is no stranger to the spotlight. Besides being an Instagram influencer, Bunny co-hosts the popular “XO Higher Self” podcast, which has found a spot in the top 100 Apple Podcasts under Self Improvement. Notably, Bunny’s multifaceted artistry brings varied engagements; from starring in HBO’s “High Maintenance” to addressing mental health through Instagram’s Anti Bullying Guide, Bunny’s dedication to enhancing well-being reverberates through her works.

“When you’re trying to find your footing in an art world dictated by social media followers, or coming to terms with queer identity, it can be challenging. I hope my work can be a light for others struggling in silence,” Bunny shares.

Additionally, Bunny’s new podcast “XO Higher Self” and soon-to-be-released web series “What Would Higher Self Do?” further epitomize her evolving artistic endeavors. These platforms continually shine a spotlight on critical self-care messages and mental well-being—an ethos Bunny remains deeply committed to.

Local Rabbit Tales: “Ten Little Rabbits” by Maurice Sendak

While Bunny Michael shares her contemporary insights, a retrospective look at Maurice Sendak’s “Ten Little Rabbits” also resurfaced, capturing rabbit enthusiasts’ attention. A posthumous picture book, “Ten Little Rabbits,” pronouncedly showcases Sendak’s storytelling prowess long after his passing. Through Mino the Magician’s whimsical adventures with bunnies, children are invited to count along, engaging with the narrative’s emotional undertones and Sendak’s signature artistry.

The book seamlessly extends Sendak’s legacy through intricate illustrations and relatable character expressions, reminiscent of his iconic tales like “Where The Wild Things Are.” As Jonathan Weinberg from The Maurice Sendak Foundation notes, “Maurice created characters that portrayed an ethnic look true to his Jewish-Polish American heritage.”

The Legacy Lives On

Sendak’s influence isn’t just limited to his illustrations but transcends through his connection to animals and the legacy he left behind. His residence, adorned with various art pieces, remains a testament to his enduring love for creativity. As Sendak once said, art requires deep understanding and commitment—a philosophy that Bunny Michael also embodies through her multifaceted works.

“Being an illustrator or an artist is lonely; it’s lots of tedious work at a drawing table by yourself,” Sendak remarked in a poignant 2003 interview. “You’re struggling against the odds, but the journey is worth it.”

The Fascination with Rabbits

In the children’s book realm, Tonya Shevenell’s “The Maine Birthday Book” and Laura Winslow’s illustrations enrich the narrative landscape, celebrating the life and habitats of the New England Cottontail rabbit. Their collective efforts culminate in a heartwarming tale of resilience and friendship that appeals to wildlife enthusiasts of all ages.

Tonya Shevenell, born and raised in Maine, captures the unique essence of local fauna in her storytelling. Her collaborative works with Laura Winslow, particularly in “The Maine Birthday Book,” highlight the joyous and educational journey of various animal friends throughout Maine’s diverse landscapes.

Winslow, who began her artistic journey under her mother’s guidance and honed her craft with renowned painter Edgar Whitney, brings vibrant watercolor techniques to life in her works. Her mastery portrays the subtleties and spirit of animal characters that captivate young audiences.

“A beautiful hardcover children’s book celebrating the wildlife and geography of Maine through the birthday stories and special wishes of animal friends,” as described by their publisher, reflects the richness of Shevenell and Winslow’s collaborative storytelling efforts.

Exploring Deeper Narratives: “Nine Rabbits” by Zaharieva

Diving deeper into mature themes, Iana Zaharieva’s “Nine Rabbits” blends various genres into a compelling narrative. This unorthodox novel traverses pastoral idylls, coming-of-age tales, and feminist memoirs, exploring human life in its raw essence. Highlighting psychological and cultural legacies, Zaharieva crafts a narrative steeped in authentic wisdom and culinary connections that ground her reflective writing.

Praised by Publishers Weekly for its vivid portrayal of life’s messiness and possibilities, “Nine Rabbits” presents a compelling narrative worth delving into. The Cedar Rapids Gazette reflects on the autobiographical tone and the profound, unwavering humanity that Zaharieva brings to her character, Manda.

“A remarkable, untraditional novel about a universal story: one woman’s quest to create—and maintain—her own identity,” notes the Asheville Citizen-Times.

Embodying the Rabbit Spirit: Songsiridej’s “Little Rabbit”

Alyssa Songsiridej’s debut novel “Little Rabbit” further explores the intricate dynamics of identity, desire, and agency. The story centers on a young queer woman who navigates her relationship with an older, dominant man in a way that consciously challenges conventional norms. Songsiridej’s prose delves into the complexities of power and intimacy, capturing the reader’s attention with its thoughtful, sensual narrative.

The psychological and emotional journeys within “Little Rabbit” offer nuanced perspectives on balancing personal and professional lives, ultimately shedding light on self-discovery and authenticity.

“Bunnies are cute. Rabbits are small and wild and determined to survive,” as quoted by the choreographer in Songsiridej’s narrative, encapsulates the essence of the determined spirit portrayed throughout the novel.

Whether in Michael’s messages of self-love, Sendak’s whimsical illustrations, Shevenell’s compelling children’s storytelling, Zaharieva’s fusion of genres, or Songsiridej’s nuanced narrative, the timeless appeal of rabbits continues to resonate through diverse literary landscapes. Each story, while unique in its content, brings a shared celebration of identity, resilience, and the beauty of embracing one’s true self.

For more insightful reads on rabbits as pets or their appropriate diets, explore the various categories available on BunnyEat.com.