Review By Patti Wigington
Rupert's Tales: The Wheel of the Year Beltane, Litha, Lammas, and Mabon is one of the most lovely children's books to come out in a long time. It's the story of little Rupert the Rabbit, who lives in the forest, and discovers one night that there are some very strange people doing some very strange things in the nearby grove. On his quest to figure out what they're up to, he learns about four of the Pagan holidays, and discovers how and why people celebrate them. Author Kyrja uses rhymes to describe the many aspects of celebration, and illustrator Tonia Bennington Osborn's beautifully gentle paintings add to the magic.RUPERT LEARNS ABOUT BELTANE
With the help of a wise old owl, Rupert cautiously watches as a group of revelers holds a Beltane celebration.
"For you and I," the owl explained, "there's never any doubt,"
"whether God and Goddess are inside of us, or how They come about."
The owl goes on to explain to Rupert why the people are celebrating Beltane, and what it means to the various traditions. From Maypoles to passion and love, Kyrja uses the owl's voice to let Rupert - and young readers - in on the magical secrets of the spring season. The owl's message is one of not just love, but also of inclusiveness:
"Nor is this feast held to honor love only between a woman and a man," the owl explained."
"For love is love, and should be honored, no matter where or how it is found or gained."
Rupert is blessed with a visit from the Divine, and recognizes this for the gift that it is.
RUPERT'S LONGEST DAY
In the second section of the book, Rupert learns about the Summer Solstice, or Litha. He is visited by a fairy, and he wonders if perhaps she is the Goddess in disguise. The fairy whispers that she is there to tell him about the longest day of the year, and reassures him that although the seasons are changing and that winter will come, he will be just fine.
"Nature is nature, it's always been this way."
"For now, enjoy the sun on this longest day!"
When the revelers arrive to dance in a circle, Rupert discovers that the people he watches are offering thanks and praise to the God and Goddess for the turning wheel of the year.
See the full Review: Rupert's Tales - The Wheel of the Year here
Rupert's Tales: The Wheel of the Year Beltane, Litha, Lammas, and Mabon