The Velveteen Rabbit was one of my favourite books to read at bedtime as a child, not just because I connected with the moving, emotional story – what child doesn’t want to believe their toys are real? – but because it is so long. My childhood edition clocks in at a whopping 47 pages, most of which are full of text. This picture book is unique in so many respects; the story could easily feel dated (scarlet fever isn’t a death sentence any longer, and most dirty toys can get chucked in the wash) but instead of succumbing to obscurity like many other children’s books of the era, it has remained a timeless classic. Margery Williams’ ode to the unquestioning and limitless love children have for their toys is still a favourite 100 years after it was first published, and for good reason. Williams knew that writing for children was one of the most difficult and rewarding things an author could do, and her words reflect that abundant respect. From the other nursery toys like the Skin Horse, to the wild rabbits outside, her characters are familiar childhood friends. It’s what makes this story – of a little sawdust-filled bunny becoming a Real Rabbit because a little boy once loved him so much it hurt – such a beautiful, enduring tale.

For the Centenary edition, Caldecott winner Erin Stead brought her own fond memories of this book to the (literal) drawing board. Because modern publishing is no longer bound by the same constraints as the printing presses in 1922, the original text has been reformatted and set so that the entire narrative flows more naturally. She shows the little Rabbit and his Boy growing through the seasons, using colour to paint the passage of time. Stead joins a prestigious list of artists who have added their own vision to this timeless classic, including the original illustrator Sir William Nicholson, and even Maurice Sendak, who had his turn illustrating this beautiful story in the 1960s.

For ages 4+.

Jennifer Fraioli is from Readings Emporium