Don Freeman was an American author and illustrator, best known for his children's books. Born on August 11, 1908, in San Diego, California, he gained fame for creating the beloved character Corduroy, a teddy bear who embarks on adventures in search of a friend. Freeman's work often featured charming illustrations and relatable themes, making his stories popular among young readers. In addition to writing, Freeman was also a talented artist. He studied at the University of California, Berkeley and later worked as a commercial illustrator. Over his career, he published numerous books, contributing significantly to children's literature until his passing on February 1, 1978.