keithpruitt's Full Review: Don Freeman - Corduroy Goes To The Doctor
Taking children to the doctor is one of the true joys of being a parent. I couldn't stand to see my little ones sick and at the mercy of a doctor. Going to the doctor isn't one of my favorite treats in life. But I would much rather be sick myself than to have one of my children ill. Even though my daughters are grown, papa bear still feels bad when they are sick.
But Don Freeman's classic, loveable bear Corduroy can help provide some comfort for your children in the board book Corduroy Goes to the Doctor. Originally released in 1987, the 2005 Viking board book contains the original story of Corduroy's visit with the same graphic splendor of the original. The illustrations are expertly provided from the pen of Lisa McCue.
In the 12 pages, Freeman and McCue tell the story of Corduroy's visit to the doctor. He likes going to his doctor because there are toys and books with which he can play. The nurse kind of pushes the reluctant-looking Corduroy into the doctor's office where she weighs him after he undresses. The doctor thinks Corduroy has grown and gained too much weight since his last visit. He blames the weight gain on too many cookies sending a strong message to today's heavier children that their weight is based on what they eat.
The doctor then looks in his throat, ears and eyes, listens to his heart, and gives him a shot to keep him from getting sick. Because he has been a really good patient, he receives a balloon and a button that reads I was a super patient.
While there are many excellent features to this loveable book, there are a couple of negatives. While Corduroy gets a shot at the doctor to help him not get sick, children who are young and impressionable may think that means every time they go to the doctor they are going to get a shot. I have some reservations also in regards to the doctor's comment about him having gained weight because he ate too many cookies. While an off the cuff remark, it might have been good to have expanded the conversation in the other direction instead of placing blame on just eating of cookies. He could have said, Corduroy, you aren't getting enough exercise. That would have been a far more positive message.
Final Thoughts In the end, Corduroy Goes to the Doctor is a cute little board book that will help parents get their young children prepared for visits to the doctor. Children love Corduroy. For the most part, the message is a good one of what to expect when you go to the doctor. The board book quality means it will last under rough handling. The illustrations, as always, are excellent giving life to the characters. With but a couple of exceptions, the book is highly recommended as an enjoyable one to help with one of the less than pleasant challenges of parenthood.
Corduroy Goes to the Doctor Don Freeman, author Lisa McCue, illustrator 12 pages, board book Viking 9780670060313
Animals - Bears Juvenile / Children's Fiction - The youngest fans of Corduroy, one of the best-loved children's book characters for over forty years, ...More at Barnes and Noble
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