Into the Thicket

by Gail Kuhnlein, John Megahan (Illustrator)

Overview

Inspired by a true story, Into the Thicket begins with the moment the author's young son discovered an injured baby rabbit — an encounter that sparked a heartfelt journey of care and connection.

This tender picture book follows a boy and the rabbit he hopes to help, gently exploring themes of compassion, courage, love, and the bittersweet beauty of letting go. It invites young readers to develop empathy and a deeper appreciation for the natural world, showing how even the smallest acts of kindness can ripple through a great, big world.

Featuring stunning watercolor illustrations by acclaimed Ann Arbor artist John Megahan, Into the Thicket is a story families will return to again and again.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9798990747807
Publisher:	BookBaby
Publication date:	08/21/2025
Pages:	60
Product dimensions:	8.50(w) x 8.60(h) x 0.40(d)
Age Range:	4 - 8 Years

About the Author

Gail Kuhnlein is the author of two picture books: How Happy Is a Lark? (December 2022) and Into the Thicket (August 2025). The story is based on a real-life adventure when her (then) young son found an injured baby rabbit. She's loved writing stories since she was young.

Gail majored in journalism and public relations at Michigan State University. She worked in the field for over 30 years, most recently at the University of Michigan's Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. Serendipity lent a hand as people she met throughout her career were instrumental in publishing her picture books.

She lives with her husband, Tim, just outside Ann Arbor, Michigan. Gail loves walking outdoors, practicing yoga, reading, meditating, and listening to music.

They adore their two adult sons, Davey and Trevor. They bunk with the two sweetest cats in the galaxy.
John Megahan's lifelong passion for art and nature has shaped his remarkable career. Growing up, he spent countless hours outdoors exploring and sketching the natural world around him. In college, he combined his interests by studying biology and art, which led him to the field of scientific illustration — a perfect blend of his interests.

After college, he worked as a freelance illustrator, developing a large clientele that included governmental and advertising agencies, universities, publishers and more. After freelancing, John became the senior scientific illustrator at the University of Michigan's Museum of Zoology, where he continues to work today. Alongside his illustration work, he has enjoyed teaching art and biology, inspiring others with his knowledge and enthusiasm.

John's other children's picture book credits include W is for Waves, An Ocean Alphabet, Thumping on Trees, and The Red Fox and Johnny Valentine's Blue-Speckled Hound. He looks forward to creating more wildlife and nature-inspired artwork and illustrating many more picture books.

Editorial Reviews

"Gail knocked it out of the park with this new children's book. This book reminded me SO much of some of my favorite children's books from my childhood … " —Leslie, Goodreads

"… This is a gem that lingers with you long after the final page, as it is going to be with me." —Ankit, Goodreads

"... My 8 year old daughter loves to read and this story is perfect for her age and reading level. It's beauty and text reminded me of some of the classic books she read over the summer ... but this one was more engaging and relatable to children!" ―Bill, Amazon

Boy Saves Bunny
"I know someone who would LOVE this! One of the greatest things about being a volunteer book reviewer is those rare times when one discovers the perfect book for a friend or family member. This is one of those books." Jess C, Amazon

Heartwarming Story about Courage and Compassion
"My kids loved this book! Patrick finds an injured baby rabbit and has to overcome his fear of the scary 'thicket' to get help. What begins as a rescue mission becomes a journey of personal growth as Patrick learns to care for the wounded creature with the help of Felice, a wildlife rehabilitator.

"This is more than just a story about a boy and a rabbit—it's about growing up, finding inner strength, and learning that sometimes the most loving thing we can do is set something free. The author's note reveals this was inspired by a true experience, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative. John Megahan's watercolor illustrations complement the story perfectly, bringing the characters and settings to life.

"Highly recommended for young readers and the adults who love them." —Shelter Dog Advocate, Amazon

"Into the Thicket is a beautiful, heartfelt story that drew me in right away. The gentle pacing, paired with John Megahan's soft watercolor illustrations, creates a world that feels both tender and true ... " pika cha cha, Amazon

From the Publisher