Rabbit Food

A diminutive bunny who refuses to eat his vegetables answers with a big ""NO"" when his mother asks the question that has plagued untold generations of kids: ""Don't you want to grow up big and strong?"" John has no interest in turning into a grownup, he says, because they eat all the vegetables he despises. His antipathy disappears when Uncle Bunny baby-sits for the weekend and organizes outdoor activities that increase even a veggie-hating rabbit's appetite. But why does Uncle Bunny keep hiding his own portions of carrots? Young vegetable foes and fans alike will appreciate the humorous twist Gretz (Frog, Duck & Rabbit) gives to her cheerful tale. From the title page, which shows Jack scowling as the rest of his family schleps home oversize veggies, her watercolor art is as fresh and crisp as her narrative. The exaggerated facial expressions alone will keep readers happy. Even picky eaters will find the message palatable in this zippy delivery. Ages 4-7. (Mar.)