This is a good story. The story has animals talking and hence is very similar to fables. A bunny and a raccoon are friends. They are neighbors. They bond with each other. Lou gives Mary carrots and Mary offers a string to Lou. The story is very imaginative. If it can be made into a full fledged storybook, it will be enjoyable to readers. As a contest entry, the story is too simplistic. But, still it has good material. Lou as a bunny is enticing. The story is a good treat to adults and children. A hat or a rainbow is the final choice.