Corduroy

When I was a little girl growing up, my absolute favorite book was Corduroy by Don Freeman. I have and always will classify Corduroy as one of my all-time favorite books for reasons that are personal and also educational. Freeman creates this fantasy fiction book for a child that brings a stuffed bear to life and that to a child is very relatable. While a young child can relate to the book in this way, at this stage in development, children are beginning to feel shame and doubt in themselves. Therefore, this book brings about the theme of being accepted for who you are as the end of the story shows the little girl accepting Corduroy for his flaws.

The book also offers themes of good behavior and acts of kindness that can prove to be beneficial in this time of development. Mary LeCompte, a critic from commonsensemedia.org, brings about the book that these themes are presented in subtle ways, offering children “a feel-good story line, a memorable main character, and charming illustrations.” I agree with her review in which all of these aspects are important to children at this age. Freeman was very passionate about his artwork, and after attending the San Diego School of Fine Arts, this has shown throughout all of his work in his career. So if you decide to introduce Corduroy to your child or student, be careful because it may become one of their favorites as it has become mine.