Corduroy

Don Freeman

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teddy bear adventure

heartwarming themes of friendship

acceptance and self worth

whimsical department store setting

child friendly prose

relatable characters

emotional storytelling

modern fantasy picture book

importance of not judging appearances

imagination and childhood exploration

balanced pacing of events

Who Would Like This Book:

This beloved classic is a true heart-warmer! With its charming illustrations and gentle story, "Corduroy" beautifully captures what it feels like to want a friend and a place to belong. The book taps into childhood imagination - who hasn’t wondered what toys might do after the store closes? It also offers a quiet but powerful message about acceptance and seeing beyond imperfections. Young children, families looking for a feel-good read-aloud, and anyone feeling a bit nostalgic for their first cuddly toy will adore this story.

Who May Not Like This Book:

A few readers found the story a bit too simple or slow, especially older kids used to more action-packed adventures or intricate plots. Some felt the themes, while sweet, might be more appealing to a younger crowd and that the message could come across as a little on-the-nose. If you prefer fast-paced stories or want lots of laughs, this gentle tale might not be your top pick.

A cozy classic about friendship and loving others (and yourself) just as you are - perfect for young readers and those who believe in a little toy-store magic.

About:

"Corduroy" by Don Freeman follows the story of a teddy bear named Corduroy who is missing a button and is overlooked in a department store until a little girl named Lisa sees past his imperfections and takes him home. Corduroy goes on an adventure through the store looking for a button to make himself more appealing to potential buyers, but ultimately finds love and acceptance with Lisa. The heartwarming tale teaches children about friendship, acceptance, and the importance of not judging based on appearances, all conveyed through simple yet engaging storytelling and relatable imagery.

Writing/Prose:

The prose is straightforward and child-friendly, using simple, engaging language that appeals to young readers and conveys emotions effectively.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot centers on Corduroy, a teddy bear, who longs for a home and friendship but faces rejection due to his missing button. After an adventurous night searching for the button, he is finally purchased by a little girl who loves him just as he is.

Setting:

The setting of a department store serves as a whimsical and relatable venue for the story, enabling an exploration of childhood imagination and friendship.

Pacing:

The pacing is balanced, with a mix of quick events and slower emotional beats that allow readers to connect with Corduroy's feelings.

Genres:

children's literature

fantasy

picture book

Topics:

Notes:

Corduroy was originally published in 1968.

The story centers around a teddy bear named Corduroy who is missing a button.

Corduroy longs for a home and friendship.

The book beautifully captures childhood fantasies of toys coming to life.

Lisa, the little girl who eventually buys Corduroy, is an African American child, which was notable for children's literature at the time.

The illustrations in the book are a mix of ink and watercolor, contributing to its charming aesthetic.

Corduroy goes on an adventure in the department store looking for his lost button.

Despite his flaws, Lisa loves Corduroy just the way he is, teaching lessons about acceptance.

The book remains popular among children and adults alike, highlighting themes of friendship and self-worth.

The story emphasizes that imperfections do not diminish one’s value.

From The Publisher:

A lovable stuffed bear, who longs for someone to take him home, launches a storewide search for his missing button lest someone mistake him for "used."

1948

Ratings (24)

Incredible (7)
Loved It (6)
Liked It (4)
It Was OK (6)
Hated It (1)

Reader Stats (42):

Read It (29)
Want To Read (3)
Not Interested (10)

What can you read after
Corduroy?

See the list (100 books)

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