New Kansas City Museum – The Rabbit Hole – Brings Children’s Literature to Life
In a revolutionary approach to the appreciation of children’s literature, a new museum has opened in Kansas City. Known as The Rabbit Hole, this captivating attraction takes visitors on a journey through various worlds of children’s books, incorporating immersive, life-sized exhibits that breathe life into beloved classics.
Entering the World of Children’s Books
Opened on March 12 in the vibrant Iron District of North Kansas City, The Rabbit Hole is the first museum in the United States to focus on celebrating a century of children’s literature. It provides a haven where treasured tales like “Goodnight Moon,” and “Last Stop on Market Street” are not just read, but also experienced.
The Visionaries Behind The Rabbit Hole
The Rabbit Hole was brought to life by Deb Pettid and Pete Cowdin, who jointly owned Kansas City’s treasured bookstore, the Reading Reptile, for more than 30 years. Their passion for children’s literature and a shared dream of making it accessible in a new, engaging way led them to create this innovative museum.
A Unique Experience Like No Other
“There’s nothing like this,” shares Jon Scieszka, acclaimed author of the infamous “The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales”. As part of the museum’s leadership team, Scieszka adds that it’s a “world-changing, in the publishing world, too.”
More than just a museum, this one-of-a-kind venue combines imagination with education, facilitating an immersive journey into different stories the world has loved for decades. From turning pages to entering rooms that echo with the characters and tales, each visitor is offered a chance to truly step into the world of their favorite books.
Becoming a Favorite Kansas City Destination
Within just days of its opening, The Rabbit Hole has already found its way into the hearts of local residents, as well as tourists. The North Kansas City venue is quickly becoming a favorite cultural attraction, and a must-visit spot for families, educators, and anyone with a fondness for children’s literature.
A Revolution in Children’s Literature Appreciation
The immersive exhibits at The Rabbit Hole give visitors of all ages the spectacular experience of living their favorite stories. It has revolutionized the concept of a ‘museum.’ Rather than housing relics behind glass screens, it invites visitors into dynamic, story-rich environments, leading to an emotional, sensory, and imaginative interaction with literature.
A Roaring Opening
The opening day saw Kansas City locals and tourists flock to the museum, testament to the anticipation that has surrounded The Rabbit Hole since its conception. Children reading with their parents, adults marveling at the creativity, literature enthusiasts applauding the novelty— it was indeed an awe-inspiring scene.
Future of The Rabbit Hole
The Rabbit Hole’s visionaries continue to develop and expand upon their initial concept, with plans for future exhibits and events that celebrate children’s literature. The journey has only just begun, and the museum’s team is enthusiastic about creating more immersive experiences for visitors to step further down The Rabbit Hole of unforgettable tales.
Final Thoughts
Through The Rabbit Hole, Kansas City adds another feather to its cap— a museum that not only celebrates children’s literature but also encourages a love of reading in an engaging and interactive way. Whether you’re a child or an adult, The Rabbit Hole offers unrivaled adventures into literary worlds with something for everyone, promising the joy of discovery and the nostalgia of timeless tales.
