The Sound of Laughing Rabbits

A page-turning adventure written and illustrated by award-winning artist and author Alex Raffi in the tradition of Maurice Sendaks Where the Wild Things Are. A magical tale of a boy named Richard who launches a boat into the vast mysteries of the open sea searching for something more from his life. The first person he meets on his voyage is a little girl in a rabbit mask named Lorelei who vehemently denies that she is a rabbit. Together they discover the beauty and danger in the world and with the help of a few more crew-mates consisting of a failed pirate a girl with wings made of clock parts a villainous tiger and a wise old sea turtle they embark on an adventure in search of something more. In the end they are surprised by what they discover about the world and themselves.A relatable story to readers of various ages for different reasons. In it are lessons that can reveal themselves based on the progressing stages in life. It speaks to the moment we all experience when we first step into the world on our own terms. The moment we begin living life without a safety net given to us by our parents. And the discoveries we all make as we progress and grow through our lives.Richard represents everyone who at some point decided to start their life away from their family. The boat represents their life. As the story grows so does the boat symbolizing the growth of his friendships and experience. The ocean represents the world. It is deep and mysterious and frightening. Always beckoning the protagonist to jump in and experience it and all its joys and dangers. The characters introduced represent moments in my life and individuals who have made a strong impact on me.