Friday, 30 September 2016
ReadItDaddy's First Book of the Week - Week Ending 30th September 2016 - "The Velveteen Rabbit" by Margery Williams and Sarah Massini (Nosy Crow)
There has always been something magical about stories that feature toys that come to life. Think way, way back to "Pinnocchio" and the story of the wooden boy who becomes real, and of course come bang up to date with the stunning "Toy Story" and it's easy to see the appeal of stories that tap into a child's imagination and the way they come to love their favourite cuddlies and toys.
One story that's oft overlooked is also one of our favourite children's stories of all time. Margery Williams' stunning classic "The Velveteen Rabbit" has been published many times but there's always room for one more interpretation.
We happen to think that this is one of - if not THE - best versions we've seen to date. Clad in a gorgeous cloth and foil-bound edition, with utterly delicious illustrations from hugely talented illustrator Sarah Massini, Nosy Crow's new range of classics really does pull out all the stops.
The story of a plush velvet rabbit who quickly becomes the favourite toy of a young boy is a true classic. The rabbit wonders what it takes to become 'real' and soon discovers that even the privileged life of a favourite toy is not without excitement and danger. That lovable toy becomes shabbier and grubbier as time passes, but after the boy suffers a terrible illness the poor rabbit is discarded and slowly discovers - with the aid of a sprinkle of magic - what it really means to be real.
Some books are destined to become 'keepers' - that hallowed collection of children's books that we just can't bear to let go. Much in the same way the boy's beloved toy rabbit becomes a well-loved keepsake, we have loved this version of the classic tale very much and can see it becoming something that stays with Charlotte until she perhaps has little ones of her own to share the story with.
Charlotte's favourite bit: When the rabbit finally becomes real, and hops out to meet the little boy one last time (have hankies at the ready for that bit!)
Daddy's favourite bit: A magical story. The late Margery Williams' work is beautifully complimented by Sarah's glorious illustrations. Every inch a Book of the Week.
(Kindly sent to us for review by Nosy Crow)
"The Velveteen Rabbit"
Written by Margery Williams
Illustrated by Sarah Massini
Published by Nosy Crow
Publication Date: 8th September 2016
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