What made The Snowy Day a groundbreaking “first” when it won the Caldecott in 1963, and what makes it noteworthy on our bookshelves as a white family almost sixty years later, is that Peter is Black. But Peter is a child who notices and reflects, which is much of what I love about this book, so I want to respond in kind, especially considering how loved this book has been-by us as a family, and as part of a wider readership. Why care? It wasn’t noticeable when I read right over it-and over and over it-to my oldest child.
(Curiously, the cover image of the book is also Peter looking back at his footprints, but those are alternating and facing forward, evidence of ambulation.) “Ezra Jack Keats’s classic The Snowy Day, winner of the 1963 Caldecott Medal, pays homage to the wonder and pure pleasure a child experiences when the world is blanketed in snow.But how could I have read over this so many times: The footprints in the picture are side-by-side, two-by-two. Perhaps the busyness of daily life in the 21st century makes us appreciate Peter even more-a kid who has the luxury of a whole day to just be outside, surrounded by snow that’s begging to be enjoyed.” - The Atlantic “Keats made Peter’s world so inviting that it beckons us. (This book is also available in Spanish, as Un dia de nieve.) The quiet fun and sweetness of Peter’s small adventures in the deep, deep snow is perfect for reading together on a cozy winter day.Įzra Jack Keats was also the creator of such classics as Goggles, A Letter to Amy, Pet Show!, Peter’s Chair, and A Whistle for Willie. Universal in its appeal, this story beautifully depicts a child's wonder at a new world, and the hope of capturing and keeping that wonder forever. In 1962, a little boy named Peter put on his snowsuit and stepped out of his house and into the hearts of millions of readers. New York Public Library's #1 book on the list of “Top Check Outs of All Time” This celebrated classic has been shared by generations of readers and listeners, a must-have for every child’s bookshelf and a perfect gift for the holiday season. The magic and wonder of winter’s first snowfall is perfectly captured in Ezra Jack Keat’s Caldecott Medal-winning picture book.
0 kommentar(er)
