The Snowy Day, a 1963 Caldecott Medal winner, is the simple tale of a boy waking up to discover that snow has fallen during the night. Keats's illustrations, using cut-outs, watercolors, and collage, are strikingly beautiful in their understated color and composition. The tranquil story mirrors the calm presence of the paintings, and both exude the silence of a freshly snow-covered landscape. The little boy celebrates the snow-draped city with a day of humble adventures--experimenting with footprints, knocking snow from a tree, creating snow angels, and trying to save a snowball for the next day. Awakening to a winter wonderland is an ageless, ever-magical experience, and one made nearly visceral by Keats's gentle tribute. The book is notable not only for its lovely artwork and tone, but also for its importance as a trailblazer. According to Horn Book magazine, The Snowy Day was "the very first full-color picture book to feature a small black hero"--yet another reason to add this classic to your shelves. It's as unique and special as a snowflake. Amazon.com review

Village School Children’s Book of the Month 

The Snowy Day by Ezra Keats

Reviewed by Katrina Walton, K-1 science teacher 

First published in 1962, this book is timeless.  The story beautifully portrays a child’s curiosity and wonder.  The illustrations are done using simply cut bright paper to complement the words.  The text is brief, leaving the reader to examine the pictures to flesh out the story.  

The book starts out with a little boy waking up to a snowy scene outside his window.  Peter goes outside and explores the world.  He drags a stick, makes tracks, and plays with the fluffy white stuff.  As he meanders along, Peter encounters older children and soon finds out he is not quite ready to play with them.  No matter, he continues playing by himself, entertaining himself endlessly.  

At the end of his frolicking, Peter brings a snowball inside, as a way to save the wonderful snowy day.  Again, he learns something about snow.  Peter is anxious that the snow will be gone forever, only to find there is much more of it when he wakes up the next morning.  The book ends with Peter venturing into the white once again, this time joined by a friend.  

I have read this book repeatedly to my children and am still delighted by how it celebrates the wonder of a child and the adventurous ways we can become knowledgeable about the great outdoors.  This is a great book to read aloud to 2 year olds to 6 year olds, and a favorite for early readers.  You can find it at Bruce’s Browser.