Becoming Real: The True Story of the Velveteen Rabbit Perfect Picture Book Friday

The fascinating true story behind Margery Williams' classic, The Velveteen Rabbit.

text copyright, Molly Golden, 2025, illustrations copyright Paola Escobar, 2025, Clarion Books

Margery Williams' time-honored tale gets a fresh look in this beautifully illustrated picture book. With text from The Velveteen Rabbit deftly woven throughout, Molly Golden tells the story of a young girl, often left alone with her imagination. Through the loss she experiences, the adventures she encounters, and through her own love of story-telling, a beloved book is born. 

For readers unfamiliar with The Velveteen Rabbit, this picture book provides the perfect introduction, and for those who already are familiar with or admire the classic, Becoming Real grants a deeper look at the events that led to its creation. With an author's note that expounds on Margery Williams' story and an extensive list of social-emotional activities that encourage readers to enjoy time with their own special toy, this book is perfect for reading at the library, in the classroom, or curled up at home with a favorite stuffed animal! 

Title:  BECOMING REAL:  THE TRUE STORY OF THE VELVETEEN RABBIT

Author:  Molly Golden

Illustrator:  Paola Escobar

Publisher:  Clarion Books, 2025

Ages:  4-8

Themes:  Imagination, Creativity, Loss, Resourcefulness, Family, Overcoming Adversity

Here are a few activities that align with the themes of this book:

• Pair with Margery Williams' The Velveteen Rabbit.
• Read the section in the back of the book, "Social Emotional Activities to Share with Your Toy," and try a few of the activities.
• Conversation starters: "Do you have a toy that is special to you? What makes it so special?" "If you have a special toy, what is your favorite memory with that toy? What is your favorite shared activity?" "In the story, Margery used her imagination in creative ways. What are some ways you use your imagination?" 

Looking for more perfect picture books? Check out Susanna Leonard Hill's website!