The Magic Rabbit by Annette LeBlanc Cate.

Ray the magician and his rabbit are best friends.  They do everything together, including their act.  But one day something goes wrong, and the two are separated.  Bunny is lost in the city alone.  He finds a nice park, but when night falls he is again alone.  He wanders the streets until he finds a perfect clue to lead him back home.

The illustrations of this picture book are done in black and white with touches of yellow gold stars scattered throughout.  The illustrations are highly detailed with many small touches.  Somehow even without color, the pictures of Bunny and Ray at home are cozy and his time on the street go towards bleak and cold.  The words are equally effective, easy to read aloud, and don’t talk down to the audience. 

Share this book as a great read aloud.  Children fascinated by magic will definitely enjoy it, but it is also a treat for any 4-6 year old.