The Velveteen Rabbit: Or How Toys Become Real
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on Goodreads (266,442)
What’s inside...
Nursery magic is very strange and wonderful, and only those playthings that are old and wise and experienced like the Skin Horse understand all about it. Like the Skin Horse, Margery Williams understood how toys--and people--become real through the wisdom and experience of love. This reissue of a favorite classic, with the original story and illustrations as they first appeared in 1922, will work its magic for all who read it. HCI’s hit self-help book The Velveteen Principles uses the lessons in Margery Williams’ The Velveteen Rabbit, the classic story of a toy bunny that learns what it means to be real, to show today’s adults how becoming “real” and embracing their true selves can make them wiser, healthier and best of all happier. This new edition of The Velveteen Rabbit is designed to compliment The Velveteen Principles. It uses the same cover design and interior design iconography. The text uses an airy layout to highlight the wisdom and beauty of Margery Williams’ words. Additional features include the original 1922 illustrations by William Nicholson and a new introduction by Toni Raiten-D’Antonio, author of The Velveteen Principles.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
1-2
Length
33 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes the Velveteen Rabbit special to the Boy?
How did the Rabbit’s feelings about being 'Real' change throughout the story?
Why do you think the Skin Horse tells the Rabbit that being Real isn't about how you are made?
Have you ever had a favorite toy, and what made it special to you?
What does this story teach us about love and friendships?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story. Validate their emotions and share your interpretations to enhance the discussion. Use the questions to relate the themes of the book to your child’s own experiences with toys and friendships. Highlight the moral lessons subtly without direct preaching, allowing the child to arrive at understandings naturally. Finally, emphasize the importance of love and affection in making things 'real' and meaningful, just like in the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of love and affection
Explanation: In the story, the Velveteen Rabbit becomes real through the love and affection of its owner, a young boy. This transformation highlights the power of emotional connections.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to express their feelings and build strong bonds with family and friends, understanding that love and care are crucial for nurturing relationships.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of genuine self
Explanation: The Velveteen Rabbit learns that real beauty comes from within and is not about appearing perfect. This unfolds as the rabbit embraces its worn-out state as a symbol of being genuinely loved.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to appreciate themselves and others for who they are, rather than for superficial attributes.
Example Lesson: Resilience through hardships
Explanation: Throughout the story, the Velveteen Rabbit faces several challenges and neglect but perseveres with hope and courage until it achieves its dream of becoming real.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to stay strong and hopeful during difficult times, understanding that endurance and inner strength can lead to fulfillment and realization of one’s dreams.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship
Explanation: The rabbit forms a deep friendship with the Skin Horse, who imparts wisdom and guidance. This relationship is central to the rabbit’s journey and transformation.
Real-World Application: This story can teach children the importance of supporting each other, and that true friends are those who guide and stand by you in every phase of life.
Example Lesson: Understanding change and growth
Explanation: As the story progresses, the Rabbit evolves from being just a toy to a beloved treasure and eventually becomes real, signifying personal growth and transformation.
Real-World Application: Children can learn that change is a natural part of life and personal growth results from embracing life’s experiences, both good and bad.