Corduroy
By Don Freeman
The Story
A toy bear waits on a department store shelf night after night, hoping someone will love him despite his missing button — until a little girl named Lisa decides he's exactly the bear she wants.
Why It's Special
For the kid who's convinced their favorite stuffed animal is a little bit magic, Corduroy is the story that proves being imperfect never stops anyone from being someone's favorite.
- Big idea: You don't have to be perfect to be exactly what someone else has been waiting for.
- Vibes: Gentle, wistful, and warmhearted, with the quiet hum of a department store after hours.
Perfect For Kids Who
- love stories about toys coming to life
- are working on understanding that being different is okay
- enjoy a cozy, familiar bedtime read
- respond well to sturdy board pages made for little hands
Ask Your Little Reader
- Story & problem-solving: What did Corduroy notice was missing when he looked at himself?
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think Corduroy felt waiting on the shelf, day after day?
- Real-life connection: Have you ever loved a toy even though it wasn't brand new?
- Imagination: If you were a toy waiting in a store, what would you hope the person who found you was like?
- Character choices: Why do you think Lisa knew right away that Corduroy was the bear for her?
