The Velveteen Rabbit

The fairy tale “The Velveteen Rabbit” was first published almost a hundred years ago and captured many hearts thanks to its simplicity and sincerity. A small Plush Rabbit dreams of becoming Real and learns that toys become real only when children truly love them. It’s a kind story about how not only toys, but we ourselves—through experience and the feeling of true love and attachment—make us real.

Once there was a plush rabbit, and at first he looked simply wonderful. He was fluffy and chubby, just as a rabbit should be; his fur had white and brown patches; his whiskers were made of real thread; and his ears were lined inside with pink satin. On Christmas morning, when he was put on top of the stocking with gifts for the Boy, holding a sprig of holly in his paws, he looked absolutely adorable.

There were other gifts in the stocking too: nuts, oranges, a toy train, chocolate-covered almonds, and a wind-up mouse—but the Rabbit, without a doubt, was the best of all. At least two hours the Boy wouldn’t let him go. But then, by lunchtime, aunts and uncles arrived, the wrapping paper and bags rustled again—and in the anticipation of new gifts, the Plush Rabbit was forgotten.