The Velveteen Rabbit: Anniversary Edition
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on Goodreads (266,021)
What’s inside...
The Velveteen Rabbit is a touching story about a stuffed rabbit and his quest to become real through the love of his owner. The rabbit learns about love and the joy and pain it can bring. Overlooked in favour of more exciting playthings, the Velveteen Rabbit seeks counsel from a threadbare horse, who tells him, 'When a child loves you for a long, long time, not just to play with, but really loves you, then you become Real.' Now presented in a centenary edition, this heartfelt tale of a stuffed toy's quest to find meaning in life is a true children's classic. The classic nursery story celebrates 100 years since its first publication! He didn't mind how he looked to other people, because the nursery magic had made him Real, and when you are Real shabbiness doesn't matter. In the nursery, only the toys that are old and wise truly understand what it means to be Real. The Velveteen Rabbit, a newcomer to the nursery, asks one of the most knowledgeable toys, the Skin Horse, what being Real means. And so begins the Velveteen Rabbit’s journey towards becoming real – through the love of a child … Margery Williams’ timeless picture book classic has been read and cherished by many generations of children and their parents and is now available in this beautiful hardback edition. Brought to life by gorgeous and much-loved classic illustrations by William Nicholson, with a new foiled cover design, this is a wonderful keepsake gift to treasure and share.
Age
2-6
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
The Velveteen Rabbit
The Boy
The Skin Horse
Nana
Discussion points
What do you think makes the Velveteen Rabbit feel real?
How do the other toys treat the Rabbit, and why do you think they act this way?
What does the Skin Horse tell the Rabbit about being real?
Can you think of a time when you felt like the Rabbit did in the story?
How does the boy show his love for the Velveteen Rabbit?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to convey the emotional nuances of the story, bringing the characters' feelings to life.
Encourage personal connections by asking your child how they relate to the Rabbit’s feelings and experiences.
After reading, ask your child to draw their favorite scene, emphasizing the emotions and transformations experienced by the characters.
Discuss the concept of 'being real' and how it applies both in the story and in their own lives, fostering deeper understanding and empathy.
Recognize emotional moments in the story to pause and explore your child’s feelings and reactions, enhancing their emotional literacy.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of love and affection
Explanation: In 'The Velveteen Rabbit', the stuffed rabbit becomes real through the boy’s love, illustrating that affection and sincere care bring things to life and give them meaning.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to express love and care towards people and their belongings, which helps in forming deeper connections and cherishing the life around them.
Example Lesson: Being genuine and authentic
Explanation: The Skin Horse advises the Rabbit that becoming real isn’t about how you are made, but about being real to someone else. This highlights the value of authenticity over mere appearance.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to value and be proud of their true selves, understanding that genuine relationships are built on authenticity and not superficial traits.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of challenges
Explanation: Despite facing hardships and not always being the favorite toy, the Rabbit’s journey to becoming real showcases resilience and steadfastness.
Real-World Application: This teaches children that perseverance through difficult times is crucial and that challenges can lead to significant personal growth and realizations.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of change and transformation
Explanation: As the story progresses, the Rabbit undergoes a transformation, both metaphorically and literally, which reflects the natural changes one encounters in life.
Real-World Application: Children learn to embrace change as a natural and positive aspect of life, understanding that it can lead to fulfilling outcomes and true self-discovery.