When Clontarf finds a tiny black rabbit on his lawn one Easter, he has no idea how much his life is about to change.

Shadow is small, quiet and far more perceptive than anyone could guess. As Clontarf learns to care for her with patience, kindness and respect, a gentle bond begins to grow between them.

But Shadow has brought more than companionship into his lonely cottage. Behind her soft bed hangs an old black-and-white photograph of a mysterious stone staircase. Shadow soon discovers that some doorways are not made of wood or stone, and that even the smallest creature may find herself drawn into a world of mist, ancient forms and forgotten magic.

Shadow and The Magic Stairs is an 80-page illustrated chapter book and the first instalment in The Adventures of Shadow series. The story is inspired by the author’s real experiences with Shadow, a black Havana rabbit he unexpectedly adopted in 2021. The events are true apart from the fantasy elements added to celebrate Shadow’s endless thirst for adventure.

This gentle story explores trust, belonging, responsible rabbit care and the secret lives of rabbits. It is written for children and adults to enjoy together.

The first-prize copy will be signed by author W. J. Kington and will bear a reproduction of Shadow’s paw print, making it a unique keepsake connected to the rabbit who inspired the adventure.

The digital artwork is described in third prize, but is part of first prize too.

When Clontarf finds a tiny black rabbit on his lawn one Easter, he has no idea how much his life is about to change.

Shadow is small, quiet and far more perceptive than anyone could guess. As Clontarf learns to care for her with patience, kindness and respect, a gentle bond begins to grow between them.

But Shadow has brought more than companionship into his lonely cottage. Behind her soft bed hangs an old black-and-white photograph of a mysterious stone staircase. Shadow soon discovers that some doorways are not made of wood or stone, and that even the smallest creature may find herself drawn into a world of mist, ancient forms and forgotten magic.

Shadow and The Magic Stairs is an 80-page illustrated chapter book and the first instalment in The Adventures of Shadow series. The story is inspired by the author’s real experiences with Shadow, a black Havana rabbit he unexpectedly adopted in 2021. The events are true apart from the fantasy elements added to celebrate Shadow’s endless thirst for adventure. 

This gentle story explores trust, belonging, responsible rabbit care and the secret lives of rabbits. It is written for children and adults to enjoy together.

The digital artwork is described in third prize, but is part of second prize too.

Experience an original creative work bringing together art, music and storytelling.

Created especially for the Shadow and the Magic Stairs Charity Book Raffle, this rabbit-themed digital artefact is the work of composer, artist and storyteller Wayne Joseph, the creative identity of author W. J. Kington.

At its centre is a richly textured original artwork in which a monumental rabbit emerges from layers of colour, natural forms and countless smaller rabbit silhouettes, with a child running among the rabbits. The image suggests movement, mystery and the hidden lives that may exist just beyond ordinary sight.

The artwork is accompanied by an original short story and a piece of music composed to belong with it. Together, the three elements form one connected experience that can be viewed, read and heard.

The winner will receive:

- Super high resolution original artwork in digital form
- An accompanying original short story
- A specially composed piece of music
- The option to purchase the artwork as a physical wall print

This is a unique opportunity to own a new Wayne Joseph digital artefact while helping Rabbit Run-Away Orphanage care for abandoned and vulnerable rabbits.