A Pocket for Corduroy
📘 About This Book
This irresistible childhood classic is a delightful sequel to the original, well-loved tale Corduroy. This charming story takes readers into a multi-ethnic, urban neighborhood Laundromat, where Lisa's mother warns her to take everything out of her pockets before washing. Pockets! Corduroy doesn't have any pockets! The furry bear's search for a pocket of his own takes him on an adventure filled with the sights, sounds, smells and hazards of the Laundromat. As a result, Lisa and her beloved bear become separated as Corduroy ends up locked inside the Laundromat all night. And what do bears do all night in places like this? They ski in the soap flakes and nap in the baskets, of course! Fortunately, Lisa returns early the next morning to reclaim her tired little friend. Soon, Lisa is sewing Corduroy a pocket of his very own and again all is well in the life of Corduroy. "This merry tale gets added interest from...the setting, a multi-ethnic urban neighborhood, of cuddly Corduroy and his pal Lisa, a black child, and her attractive mother." — Publishers Weekly.
📖 Summary
A Pocket for Corduroy, written and illustrated by Don Freeman and published in 1980, is the irresistible childhood classic and delightful sequel to the original, well-loved tale of Corduroy. Spanning thirty-six pages of charming juvenile fiction, this heartwarming story transports readers into a vibrant, multi-ethnic, urban neighborhood. The narrative begins when a little girl named Lisa and her special teddy bear visit the local Laundromat. Before starting the wash, Lisa's mother issues a practical warning, reminding everyone to carefully empty everything out of their pockets. This simple instruction sparks a profound realization within the furry little bear. Pockets! Corduroy looks down and makes a startling discovery: he does not have any pockets at all. Determined to solve this glaring wardrobe deficiency, the lovable bear sets off on an independent quest. His search for a pocket of his own takes him on an exciting adventure filled with the unique sights, sounds, smells, and unexpected hazards of the bustling Laundromat. As Corduroy wanders off to find his elusive pocket, a separation occurs between the devoted bear and his human companion. Night falls, and Corduroy finds himself accidentally locked inside the darkened Laundromat all by himself. This sets the stage for a whimsical and imaginative exploration of a closed business after hours. Readers are left to wonder and delight in what a stuffed bear actually does all night in a place filled with laundry equipment. True to his playful nature, Corduroy makes the most of his solitary nocturnal adventure. He creatively skis through mountains of fluffy soap flakes and finds cozy spots to nap inside the laundry baskets, creating a memorable escapade that captures the magic of childhood imagination. Fortunately, the separation is only temporary. Lisa returns early the next morning, worried and eager to reclaim her tired little friend. The reunion brings immense relief, setting the stage for a wonderful resolution. Soon after returning home, creative problem-solving takes center stage as Lisa sets to work sewing a special pocket onto Corduroy, complete with a personal treasure tucked safely inside. This gentle tale beautifully explores themes of friendship, resourcefulness, independence, and the comfort of being cared for. Don Freeman's classic sequel continues to captivate young readers with its relatable characters, gentle suspense, and satisfying conclusion, making it a timeless addition to children's literature collections everywhere.
🎯 Key Lessons
⚖️ Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
Delightful sequel that lives up to the original Corduroy story
Engaging urban setting in a multi-ethnic neighborhood Laundromat
Whimsical and imaginative nighttime scenes that children love
Teaches positive lessons about friendship and resourcefulness
⚠️ Cons
Gets separated from his owner overnight, which might cause brief worry for very sensitive listeners
Short page count may leave young readers wishing for a longer adventure
✍️ About the Author
❓ FAQ
Who is the author of A Pocket for Corduroy? +
The book was written and illustrated by Don Freeman.
When was A Pocket for Corduroy published? +
This classic juvenile fiction picture book was published in 1980.
Where does the story take place? +
The story is set in a multi-ethnic, urban neighborhood Laundromat.
Why does Corduroy go on an adventure? +
He realizes he does not have any pockets and sets off to find one of his own.
How does the story resolve? +
Lisa returns the next morning to reclaim Corduroy and sews a brand new pocket onto his overalls.
