Early to be Waiting for A SNOW DAY FOR AMOS McGEE, But...

It's still early in November, so these drought-stricken midwest streets include some autumn leaves still clinging to trees and clustering along fence lines. Snow days seem a distance memory, even when overnight temperatures have us tugging on a blanket along with our summer sheets. 

On the other hand, snow will come, eventually. And the time is always right to welcome a picture book by the phenomenal creative team of writer Philip C. Stead and illustrator Erin E Stead. Both have produced outstanding offerings in recent years, individually and as a team. But their joint creation, the irresistible zookeeper AMOS McGEE, has not had another starring role since the CALDECOTT MEDAL graced the cover of A SICK DAY FOR AMOS McGEE in 2011. 

Roaring Brook Press, 2025

We needn't wait to celebrate A SNOW DAY FOR AMOS McGEE with the gleeful excitement of the first snowfall of the season. Both the text and the illustrations are tender and gently-paced. The story unfiolds slowly, allowing multiple spreads to absorb the calm and depth of life in Amos's little house. I kept wanting to ascribe another word to the title, "Waiting", since that's what the early pages introduce and take time to explore. His bunny and mouse housemates are just two of the many animal companions that populate his life, on the bus, at work, and back at home again. All waiting.

The fine line illustrations are, in part, black-and-white, while others are colored in the most delicate of natural tones. Text, too, ranges from sheer simplicity to remarkably touching elaboration, as evidenced on the first page:

"Amos McGee loved the snow. Every morning as winter approached, he wrapped himself in  a cozy blanket and listened in hope to the weather report." 

Straightforward and clear, pure and simple. Then the next lines hit you in the heart:

"Amos liked to imagine that his radio was a crackling fireplace. He warmed himself each day with the possibility of good news."

Black and white. Then subtle, heart-throbbing color.  Magnificent.

Throughout the book readers will notice echoes of the original Amos title, not only in the characters and setting, in their comfortable companionship, but in the butter-sunny yellow stripes on the wall, in McGee's little cottage tucked between massive buildings, not unlike THE LITTLE HOUSE by Virginia Lee Burton. Anachronistic, but not the least bit uncomfortable in its place in the world. This could describe the AMOS McGEE books to a "T". The touches of humor throughout have the deft subtlety and smile-making power, with page after page of special details to be noticed on every turn.Nothing is rushed, overplayed, or exaggerated.

And every bit of it is not only enough, it is absolutely "just right".

Patience is a virtue that pays off well in this gem. We are halfway thru the book with only "waiting", although McGee's preparations and faith fill  that first half and give little readers faith and hope. It is only at the midpoint when the fantastical fun begins. The menagerie from the zoo, comfortable in their hand knit wrappings, make their way to McGee's front door. The most  delightful blend of familiar  snow antics with "Let the wild rumpus begin." (WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE, SENDAK) captivates and inspires bliss. There is no scrimping on the joyful play, page turn after turn. But a double spread and final single page is reserved to provide one of the most perfect endings you'll find in a picture book.

This is another example of a picture book that will enchant youngest listeners, delight older kiddos, and fully entertain adults. It's original as well as nostalgic. 

Roaring Brook Press, 2011

On the rare chance that you missed the original, be sure to check out A SICK DAY FOR AMOS, too. In fact, give it another look, even if it is an old favorite. It has aged well and is a lovely companion title for gifting!