The Snowy Day

Synopsis

The magic and wonder of winter's first snowfall is perfectly captured in Ezra Jack Keat's Caldecott Medal-winning picture book. 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.

New York Public Library's #1 book on the list of "Top Check Outs of All Time"

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. 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. 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.
 
Ezra 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.
 
(This book is also available in Spanish, as Un dia de nieve.)
 

Praise for The Snowy Day:
"Keats made Peter's world so inviting that it beckons us. 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

"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."-Publisher's Weekly

Summary

Chapter 1: Getting Ready

Peter wakes up on a snowy winter morning, eager to play in the freshly fallen snow. He puts on his warm winter clothes, including his cozy red snowsuit, hat, and mittens.

Example: Peter zips up his snowsuit, feeling the soft, fuzzy lining against his skin.

Chapter 2: First Steps

Peter steps outside and marvels at the winter wonderland that surrounds him. The snow blankets everything in a thick, white layer, creating a pristine and magical atmosphere.

Example: Peter's footprints sink softly into the fresh snow, leaving a trail behind him as he explores.

Chapter 3: Snowball Fight

Peter finds his friend Aziza and they start a playful snowball fight. They toss snowballs at each other, laughing and squealing with joy as they dodge and weave.

Example: A snowball whizzes past Peter's ear, sending a burst of cold powder across his face.

Chapter 4: Building a Snowman

Peter and Aziza decide to build a snowman. They gather three balls of snow and stack them on top of each other. They add coal for eyes, a carrot for a nose, and sticks for arms.

Example: Peter's snowman is tall and proud, standing sentinel over the snowy landscape.

Chapter 5: Snow Angels

Peter and Aziza lie down in the snow and make snow angels. They wave their arms and legs, creating perfect imprints of their bodies in the fresh snow.

Example: Peter's snow angel spreads out before him, its wings reaching into the sky.

Chapter 6: Sledding Adventure

Peter and Aziza find a hill and climb to the top with their sleds. They take turns sledding down, feeling the wind rush past their faces and the snow spray up against their legs.

Example: Peter's sled rockets down the hill, leaving behind a trail of laughter and excitement.

Chapter 7: Snow Fort

Peter and Aziza build a snow fort by piling up snow and shaping it into walls and a roof. They curl up inside the fort, creating their own cozy winter hideaway.

Example: Inside the snow fort, the air is warm and still, providing a refuge from the cold winter air.

Chapter 8: Winter Wonderland

Peter and Aziza continue to explore the winter wonderland, discovering hidden treasures and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Example: They stumble upon a frozen pond and watch as birds glide effortlessly across the ice.

Chapter 9: Time to Go Home

As the sun begins to set, Peter and Aziza head home, exhausted but filled with joy and wonder. They leave behind the snowy day, but carry with them the memories they created.

Example: Peter walks into his warm house, his clothes covered in snow and his cheeks flushed with excitement.