Lou Fancher

Ezra Jack Keats may be best known as the creator of the 1963 Caldecott Medal winning The Snowy Day (opens in a new window) which featured a little brown boy named Peter. In lyrical language, Keats’ life and inspirations are revealed complemented by lush collage and acrylic illustrations that evoke Keats’ work. Embedded on selected pages are images of the real Peter and paintings by Keats. An author’s note completes the biographical homage to Keats and his legacy.

Hunter gathers a collection of stones for his grandmother’s porch, confident that she’ll know what to do with them. Many uses are found for the stones, including a “grandmother necklace” and even one to skip on a lake. Soft illustrations in warm tones and an engaging narration capture the special bond between boy and grandmother.

Originally read at the 2005 White House tree-lighting ceremony and published as a Christmas book for adults, Angelou’s stirring poem is presented alongside convivial winter scenes in a picture book intended for young readers, but whose message and splendid artwork will appeal to all ages. Angelou celebrates the spirit of the season — a time to learn to look beyond complexion and see community — with a resonating call for hope, unity, and, above all, peace. [Booklist]

The life of Wolfgang’s older sister, Maria Anna, follows the form of a piano sonata which combines with evocative illustration to portray the 18th century musicians and their music.

Snowflakes begin to fall as almost everyone says goodnight. But the snowplow and its driver are just gearing up for a long night. Morning comes with closed schools but clear streets and only then do the snowplow and driver say good night! Richly hued illustrations and gently rhyming text present a snowy night’s work.

A long-eared hound is the king’s official taster whose job is to make sure that nothing will harm the young royal. Even after dog and his cook search worldwide for new, tasty recipes, the king refuses to eat. Intervention by royal parents is required when secret candy eating is revealed, resolving all issues. Humor abounds in this satisfying saga.

What is a maker? “A maker starts with/empty space/ideas/hope/and stuff.” With those things, one can craft a boat, a card, a tie-dye shirt, or even a sock puppet. Poetry, art, and ideas come together in a charming whole to encourage, inspire, and stimulate creativity. Textured illustrations show a range of children creating, sharing and more.