CARING PARENTS’ CHOICE
Ryan Cohen and the Teddy Books
Teddy is a series of illustrated children’s books written by Ryan Cohen, the entrepreneur who founded the online pet retailer Chewy and became CEO of GameStop. The books were published in 2022 in two volumes of five hardcover stories each. They cover everyday lessons: saving money, the difference between wants and needs, work and earning, friendship, caring for a pet and curiosity about the world.
Who is Ryan Cohen?
- Born in 1986 in Montreal, Canada. He did not attend college.
- Founded Chewy in 2011 at age 25. The company was sold to PetSmart in 2017 for $3.35 billion and later went public.
- Joined GameStop’s board in January 2021, became chairman in June 2021 and CEO in September 2023.
- Known as an investor through his firm RC Ventures, with large holdings in companies such as Apple.
Why “Teddy”? The story behind the name
The series is inspired by Ryan Cohen’s father, Ted Cohen, a glassware importer who passed away in 2019. Cohen has said: “My father, Ted Cohen, and his lessons have guided me throughout my life.” The books pass along the kind of practical, everyday lessons a parent teaches at home, told through the eyes of a young boy named Teddy.
All ten Teddy books
| Book | What it opens a conversation about | Volume |
|---|---|---|
| Teddy and the Piggy Banks | Saving and patience | 1 |
| Teddy Goes to Work | Work and effort | 1 |
| Teddy and the People Who Make the World Go Round | Community and the people behind everyday life | 1 |
| Teddy Goes to China | Curiosity about other places | 1 |
| Teddy Says Words Can Never Hurt You | Words, feelings and confidence | 1 |
| Teddy Says Money Doesn't Grow on Trees | Wants versus needs | 2 |
| Teddy and the Corn Stand | Earning money and a first small business | 2 |
| Teddy and His Best Friend Jerry | Friendship | 2 |
| Teddy Gets a Puppy | Caring for a pet and responsibility | 2 |
| Teddy Plays in the Snow | Winter fun and shared experiences | 2 |
How to buy the Teddy books
- Complete Collection, all 10 books: $129.99, about $20 less than buying the ten books separately.
- Volume 1, five-book hardcover set: $69.99.
- Volume 2, five-book hardcover set: $69.99.
- Individual hardcovers: $14.99 each.
Every set ships free within the US. Not sure which volume to choose? Read Teddy Volume 1 vs Volume 2. Looking for a gift by age? See our book gifts by age chart.
Frequently asked questions
Did Ryan Cohen write children’s books?
Yes. Ryan Cohen, founder of Chewy and CEO of GameStop, wrote the Teddy series: ten illustrated children’s books published in 2022 in two five-book volumes.
Who is Teddy named after?
The series is inspired by Ryan Cohen’s father, Ted Cohen, whose lessons Cohen credits with guiding his life.
What age are the Teddy books for?
We recommend them as read-aloud picture books for roughly ages 3 to 8. This is our editorial suggestion, not a publisher reading level.
Are the Teddy books about money?
Three of the ten books focus on money (saving, wants versus needs, and earning). The others cover work, community, friendship, feelings, pets and travel. See Teddy books about money.
Can I buy Teddy books in bulk?
Yes. We supply sets for schools, financial advisors, banks and community organizations. See bulk and corporate gifts.
Caring Parents’ Choice is an independent, family-run retailer selling new Teddy books. We are not affiliated with or endorsed by Ryan Cohen, GameStop or Chewy. Biographical facts are drawn from public sources.