Written and Illustrated by: Don Freeman
Ages: 4-8
One of my favorite pictures books that I remember reading as a child is, Corduroy. Re-reading this book again for this assigned blog, it reminded me of my recent trip to the movie theaters to go see the visually appealing Disney favorite, Toy Story 3. Any one who has seen Toy Story 3 knows they got a little teary eyed watching this movie. Even I WILL admit that I cried. I remember even my mother, who has gone through and purchased a numerous amount of toys for me and my sisters, turn to me as the credits were scrolling down and in the darkness she whispered to me, " I feel so guilty now for throwing out some of your old beat up toys!"
Every child in a toy store doesn't know where to turn first. It's like finding all these magical and beautiful jewels in a treasure chest and you can't get enough of it! Although my days of collecting stuff animals and dolls has dwindled, every now and then when I'm in my room and I look up at my shelf full of old dolls, it's not the newest that I stare to stop and admire. The ones that always catch my eyes are those that are worn out, not the best in shape, but hold the longest and most dear memories in my heart. I look beyond those rips and other damages and only see the good and beauty in them. This is what the story of Corduroy reminds me of.
Corduroy, written and illustrated by the popular Don Freeman, just celebrated its 42nd anniversary in publication. Everyone knows of the brown bear in his green overalls and missing button. It is believed that this book has become a classic cult favorite and is even more popular and recognizable in today's generation. Corduroy is a little teddy bear who is eager to be bought from a toy store. One day while he is sitting on the shelf, he admires a young African American girl who falls in love with Corduroy instantly. Although she was eager to buy him, she was denied the purchase by her mother because she believed that had bought too many things already for that day. Later that night, when Corduroy notices he is missing a button, he goes in search for it. Although he does not find his button, he is awakened with the surprise of the same little girl from the previous day. Having saved her money, she purchases him and brings him home where Corduroy acknowledges that he has a home and a new best friend. Although she loves him just the way he is and looked beyond his imperfections, she sewed him a brand new button.
I think Corduroy is such a touching story with a basic simple message: never judge or pass someone by who has imperfections. It doesn't mean that they don't offer something as amazingly unique and special! If we were all the same, what kind of of world would we be living in? Even if we have some sort of imperfection or even some insecurities about ourselves, we must always remember to put our best foot forward. We should proudly show the qualities that are great about ourselves and what really makes our personality shine!
I will absolutely use Corduroy when I become a certified teacher. Who can resist the popping, bright red background featuring a cute little bear on the cover! The pictures in the book are bright, bold and just the facial expressions of Corduroy alone can tell the story. I believe that every child loves a story about toys, but most importantly, it will explain a message to the children to stop, think and understand that there all types of people in this world. Even if they seem a bit different than you and me, they should all be treated with the same amount of respect and appreciation. You never know what you can discover about them and what you can discover about yourself.
I found an interesting and yet ironic story about the author, Don Freeman. He tells the story of when he was on the subway and he lost his instrument. Because of this incident he was forced to focus on his art and it was with his own discovery that he saw his talents emerge as a book author and illustrator. Sometimes the story of Corduroy also reminds me of my cousin Matthew who has Down Syndrome. Although he looks and seems different, and he may have some imperfections, he is still a fun, loving boy who loves basketball and loves being admired and adored by his family and friends. He's my own Corduroy in my life and I would never pass him by.
Cristina,
ReplyDeleteYou have truly embraced the story of Corduroy in this Blog. Toys play such a crucial role as children begin to explore and discover the world around them. Toys as part of pretend play, also assist children with language acquisition. It is nice to have a book that appreciates the impact of toys in a child's life. Furthermore, as you mentioned, toys become more than just an object that we use to pass time. They become a companion and teach children to be compassionate, caring, and loving.
I completely understand your connection of this story with your cousin Matthew's story. Some can view differences as a negative characteristics. We can only hope for people to be open-minded and Corduroy reminds us of this importance.