2023 EDIT: Part of my 2023 clear-up, of books I no longer like, or am no longer interested in, or remember well as standing out, or find as special anymore, or I otherwise will not miss.
Final Score: 4/5
Original Review:
What a lovely story! So lovely and genuinely heartwarming that I nearly cried.
'The Velveteen Rabbit' is one of the world's first toy stories, about the life cycle of a toy rabbit given in a stocking to a little child at Christmas. I'm surprised it was published in 1922 - it raises issues such as classism and empty, loveless narcissism; these are so important to reflect on and discuss nearly one hundred years later that it's scary.
This velvet beauty of a children's book teaches us that love is powerful. Love is real, and it makes us feel real ourselves when we experience it in life, in giving and receiving it. There is a slight Christian allegory to the tale as well, but it's harmless, with still important messages.
'The Velveteen Rabbit' is a fantasy, but it resonates truthfulness and the nature of love up to a level that no other children's picture book has reached and captured. Indeed for such a sweet story starring a plush bunny it is rather heavy at times. The writing, illustrations and overall atmosphere are gorgeous.
Fairy (or nursery) magic or not, 'The Velveteen Rabbit' is a natural treasure, and a must-read to all children.
I wish us all a happy new year.
Final Score: 4/5
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