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Don Freeman

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description Don Freeman Overview

Don Freeman was an American illustrator and author of children's literature, best known for creating the picture book "Corduroy" in 1968. The story follows a teddy bear searching for a home and a missing button for his overalls within a department store. Before his career in publishing, Freeman was a jazz musician who played the trumpet in New York City. His illustrations often utilized watercolors and lithography to capture the bustling atmosphere of urban environments.

help Don Freeman FAQ

What happens to the bear in Don Freeman's Corduroy?

Corduroy is a teddy bear living in a department store who believes finding his missing button may persuade someone to buy him. A girl named Lisa takes him home, sews on a button, and tells him she likes him as he is.

Did Don Freeman write a sequel to Corduroy?

Yes, Freeman wrote A Pocket for Corduroy, published in 1978. In that story, Corduroy searches for a pocket while spending the night in a laundromat.

Why is Corduroy missing a button?

One strap of Corduroy's green overalls lacks a button when Lisa sees him in the department store. The missing button drives his nighttime search, but Lisa's decision to adopt him does not depend on making him perfect.

What other children's books did Don Freeman create?

Freeman wrote and illustrated books including Dandelion, Earl the Squirrel, and Mop Top. Before becoming known for children's books, he also worked as an artist documenting life and theater in New York City.