The Snowy Day

This is one of those books that the kids beg to be read over and over again, but I have to honestly say, I haven't tired of it yet.  How's that for a recommendation?  Ezra Jack Keats received the Caldecott Medal for The Snowy Day in 1963.  Meet Peter, and enjoy the beautiful language of this simple story of Peter navigating his snowy world.  Also, check out Keats' masterful illustrations, a combination of cut-outs and watercolors presented in a softened, snowy collage. I especially appreciate The Snowy Day because it "broke the color barrier in mainstream children's publishing" in 1962 when Keats first introduced his character, Peter, who would go on to appear in six additional books.  If you'd like to discover more about Ezra Jack Keats and his books, please check out the website http://www.ezra-jack-keats.org/

The Little Drummer Boy

Ezra Jack Keat's stunning illustrations breathe life into the beloved children's carol The Little Drummer Boy, words and music by Katherine Davis, Henry Onorati, and Harry Simeone.  Here's another story that's difficult to read without lapsing into the song or some kind of tapping.  The kids especially love repeating the rhythmic "pa-rum-pum-pum-pum" with an unmistakable enthusiasm!  The provocative song tells the story of a poor boy honoring the baby Jesus with the only gift he has, the heart-gift of song.  Notice how Keats carries the story in the little drummer boy's facial expressions, making these memorable Middle Eastern illustrations a Christmas classic to savor each year.

For those unfamiliar with the tune, Keats includes the musical score and lyrics in the back.