Picture Book

The Snowy Day - Ezra Jack Keats 

Keats,  Ezra Jack. 1972. THE SNOWY DAY. Ill. By Keats, Ezra Jack. New York, NY: Puffin Books. ISBN 0140501827

In this quaint little picture book, Peter, the main character, discovers the wonders and thrills of a snow day. The reader follows Peter as he discovers the pleasures that only a child can find while playing in the snow. We share the experience of trying to save something that can’t be saved.

Keats’ writing is child like to reflect the young age of the main character, Peter.  The author’s use of language enhances the story by allowing the reader to “crunch” and “make tracks” with Peter in the snow. The story is reflective of any reader who has experienced the pleasure of playing in the snow, making snowmen, angels, or been on the receiving end of a snowball. The most notable feature is the fact that Peter, the main character, is African American and created by a white Jewish artist.  Although some were uncertain about the authenticity of the character it soon became clear that the common experience of a first snow transcended racial boundaries. 

The illustrations are collage and cutouts with a variety of patterns and colors.  Often the illustrations appear contrasting and conflicting, but reflect a child’s eye to the world.  The blending of colors and shapes are a beautiful reflection of how a child might see the world with wonder and amazement.

This book may appear to be simplistic in both text and plot, but it tells of a universal experience shared by most—the excitement of a snow day!

Caldecott Award Book 

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “this Caldecott Medal winner remains a staple on home and library shelves”

*This is a wonderful book to share with children when trying to find a common interest and bond over shared experiences. 

*Other books written by Keats and featuring, Peter, include:

A LETTER TO AMY. ISBN 978-0140564426

PETER’S CHAIR. ISBN 978-0140564419.