Of the range of comics and zines from the 2024 ShortBox Comics Fair, the art style of Hibernation Guide for Rabbits and Hares grabbed my attention the most. Written by L. Adassovsky, this pastel delight contains both English and French versions of the sweet story. The range of rabbits and hares on the front cover is absolutely adorable; the tall slim Thistle, bespectacled, befuddled Muguet and sweet baby Mallow make up just some of the beautiful array of characters we will be introduced to.
Hibernation Guide takes place during the season of winter. Whilst in the real-world rabbits don’t hibernate, Adassovsky crafts a world in which rabbits have evolved to lie dormant in winter due to the hardships the chilly weather causes, like lack of food. The beginning of winter is swiftly marked by a cold breeze, as well as butterflies and caterpillars crawling into the shelter of the rabbit’s homes. Every winter, kind Gentiane opens her hotel to rabbits and hares seeking asylum from the unpredictable weather. The hotel is as pretty as a picture; candy-coloured soft pinks and a cross-hatched rooftop make up some of the adorable cottage décor, whilst rosebushes and other greenery huddle around the building.
Almost as soon as the weather turns cold, guests begin to appear, leaving little time to prepare. However, Gentiane’s assistant Thistle has a different plan in mind; whilst all of the other rabbits and hares run around in a panic, getting their belongings together to head to Gentiane’s, Thistle heads outside, in the opposite direction. While the rabbits hunker down with a delicious feast of pears, plums and jam before they rest for the winter, Thistle determinedly strides out into the great unknown… but for what possible reason?
Reading through Hibernation Guide for Rabbits and Hares was an absolute treat, both visually and through its immersive storytelling. The attention to detail is amazing; from the rabbits’ patchwork blankets and pinafore dresses, to the tableware, china and trinkets featured around the hotel. I adored the host of different rabbits and hares, all with distinct personalities and looks, accompanied with the soft, pastel art style. Of course, I was reminded of Dick Bruna’s Miffy series, particularly with the use of ‘x’s’ for the rabbits’ closed mouths, but something about the tale felt so nostalgic, like a warm comfort blanket.
Hibernation Guide is the perfect kind of short, cosy read to be treasured during the colder months. Brimming with warmth, hope and love, this delightful comic is available throughout the rest of October at ShortBox Comics Fair
L. Adassovsky • ShortBox Comics Fair, £8.00
Review by Lydia Turner
