Corduroy Takes a Bow Book Review
Celebrate 50 years of America’s favorite teddy bear Corduroy with a brand-new, classically illustrated picture book by Academy Award winner Viola Davis.
Disclaimer: I was provided a copy of this book from the publisher to facilitate this review. As always, all opinions are my own.
Corduroy Takes A Bow
Using her own experiences as a Tony Award-winning Broadway actress, Viola Davis writes the story of Corduroy and Lisa’s first trip to the theater.
The stage is a pretty magical place. Most children who have had the opportunity to go see a play on stage are thrilled. A noteworthy and extremely important message that the book features people of color in all elements of the theater.
Furthermore, the show they attend is a Mother Goose play. Children will read and sing along with you as you read aloud the classic Mother Goose rhymes.
(Read more on How to Use Music to Improve Reading.)
The Privilege of a Bookshelf
Viola herself reminds readers through her own childhood about the power of imagination. For many poor children of color like herself, reading books was a way out and a way to connect with the world. Having bookcases, having access to books, and having characters that looked like you… all very big privileges.
Watch Viola’s interview below for a crucial reminder about privilege and describes escaping from real life into the magical world of books.
From Lisa and her mother, to the orchestra pit, stage manager, and actors, children of color can escape into a world of people that looks just like them.
Going to the library changed my life because I never wanted to go home. Escaping into a book was a relief from my life. @violadavis #corduroytakesabow Share on X
Classic Corduroy Moments
As usual, Corduroy adventures off on his own. Readers follow his escapades as he explores all over–from the orchestra pit to the costumes rack to the props table. Corduroy ultimately makes it onto the stage itself to meet the Mother Goose characters in a typically hilarious fashion.
As always, he is reunited with his best friend Lisa in a feel good way that will have kids running for their own favorite stuffed animal or toy.
A beautifully illustrated tale with a classic feel. Corduroy Takes A Bow is sure to show children of all ages the magic of the theatre.
Purchase Corduroy Takes a Bow on Amazon | Shop your local indie bookstore
More About the Author
Davis is currently starring in the fourth season of How to Get Away with Murder. Shebecame the first African American actress to receive the Emmy Award for “Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series” for this role.
In 2012, Davis and her husband founded their production company, JuVee Productions. It’s focus is on giving a voice to the voiceless through strong, impactful, and culturally relevant narratives.
Davis will next star in Steve McQueen’s Widows, alongside Colin Farrell and Liam Neeson. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband and six-year-old daughter (to whom she reads Corduroy aloud!).
Follow Viola Davis on Twitter | Instagram.
Tips for Reading with Kids
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