First published 2020
The Velveteen Rabbit arrives in the nursery as just another toy among many. The wise old Skin Horse shares a secret with him: toys can transform into real animals when children love them completely. The rabbit dreams of this magical change as he becomes the boy's most cherished companion. They play together every day until the rabbit grows shabby and worn from constant affection. Then scarlet fever strikes the household. The boy falls seriously ill, and the rabbit stays by his side through the frightening ordeal. When the child recovers, doctors order all contaminated belongings destroyed to prevent the disease from spreading. The beloved rabbit faces destruction along with everything else the sick boy touched. This classic tale explores how genuine love creates something precious and lasting, even when loss seems certain.
Genres: 20th-century, fantasy
Vibes: emotional, intimate, whimsical
Tropes: found-family
48 pages · Hardcover · Applewood Books
Content warnings: death