eet Leo, a five-year-old Labrador Retriever who lives year ‘round in Ouray. Nothing makes Leo happier than playing with soft, plush toys, so it’s no surprise that his favorite book is The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams, with illustrations by William Nicholson. Just like Leo, The Velveteen Rabbit is a classic loved by all. The book takes readers inside the magical world of toys, showing how love and wisdom have the power to transform any situation.
When he’s not eating or thinking about food, Leo likes long naps on the couch. He barks loudly at passing dogs, plays tag with his friend, Luke, goes for hikes with his humans, and brings joy to those he meets.
Young and old love the story of a stuffed rabbit who becomes real through the love and attention of a small boy. According to the older, wiser toys, “When a child loves you for a long, long time, not just to play with, but REALLY loves you, then you become Real.” This message of transformation through patience and faith does not come all at once. Williams takes readers on an exciting journey that will thrill and delight those who share the belief that we are more than our age, appearance or size.
