Corduroy

Why It's On Our Shelf

The theme of belonging and being chosen despite imperfection is what makes this enduring. Kids relate to Corduroy's desire for home, and they love the idea of toys having adventures when people aren't looking. The warm illustrations capture both the department store adventure and the emotional payoff when the girl comes back with her own money. What matters is that being wanted doesn't depend on being perfect - the girl chooses Corduroy specifically, missing button and all. That's a message about worth and belonging that kids need to absorb.