This kind of program is easy to pull together for about any book, but when there is a special prop such as this doll, or when a costume is available for rent from a publisher, then the event becomes a really special thing for the kids and they will remember that forever.
Edward traveled with a journal so that there is a history of the places he has visited. To add to his journal, I gave each child a piece of paper for them to draw a picture for Edward or write him a letter or tell them what they liked best about the book. I attached all those adorable notes to the journal, along with a group photo of the kids in their bunny ears, and let Edward continue on his journey.
"Once, in a house on Egypt Street, there lived a china rabbit named Edward Tulane. The rabbit was very pleased with himself, and for good reason: he was owned by a girl named Abilene, who treated him with the utmost care and adored him completely. And then, one day, he was lost. Kate DiCamillo and Bagram Ibatoulline take us on an extraordinary journey, from the depths of the ocean to the net of a fisherman, from the top of a garbage heap to the fireside of a hoboes' camp, from the bedside of an ailing child to the streets of Memphis. And along the way, we are shown a true miracle — that even a heart of the most breakable kind can learn to love, to lose, and to love again." |
1. In a mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating on high until stiff peaks form.
2. Transfer to a pastry or plastic bag; cut a small hole in a corner of the bag. On parchment-lined baking sheets, pipe the meringue into 4-3/4" inch bunny shapes. Bake at 225 degrees for 1-1/2 hours or until firm. Remove to wire racks to cool.
3. In a microwave or heavy saucepan, melt candy coating, stirring until smooth. Place in a pastry or plastic bag. Pipe ears,whiskers and mouths on bunnies. Attach hearts for eyes and nose with melted candy coating.
*If I were to do this again, I might try to use a gingerbread man cookie cutter to get the rabbits into a more uniform size.
** Very time consuming.