Books · 01-08-2017
Ezra Jack Keats’ joyful picture book, The Snowy Day, will be honored on a set of postage stamps later this year. The U.S. Postal Service will showcase four stamps of “main character Peter exploring and playing in his neighborhood while wearing his iconic red snowsuit.” The Snowy Day remains one of the most beloved and influential children’s picture books. It is a Caldecott Award-winning classic that transports readers into a snowy world of wonder. Published during the 1960s civil-rights...
Books · 11-11-2016
Recently, I read an article about what books do for the human soul. The author explained how good literature makes us nicer because it allows us to consider someone else’s point of view. Good literature also allows us to consider our actions on others and provides us with examples of being kind and generous. Good picture books also enhance our lives. With their wide array of topics and vivid artistry, these books play a key role in fostering a child’s imagination, creativity, and interest...
Books · 09-27-2016
A small act of kindness can brighten someone’s day. Simple gestures such as a smile or lending a helping hand can be transformative. There is also evidence that giving or receiving kindness is healthy for us. Treating others with kindness yields positive feelings, which can lift our moods and increase resilience and resourcefulness. These healthy benefits also apply to children. One book that exemplifies these positive feelings is the beautiful picture book, Sidewalk Flowers. In this wordless...
Books · 01-28-2014
If you live in the greater Baltimore/Washington D.C. region, don't miss the creative exhibit Beyond Words: The Artistry of Illustrated Children's Books. Organized by McDaniel College, in a partnership with the Corcoran College of Art + Design, the exhibit highlights work from thirty-two artists, seventeen of whom received a Caldecott Medal or Honor or both. The art ranges from the classical works of the early and mid-20th century (e.g., Marcia Brown, Hardie Gramatky, Willy Pogany) to the...
Books · 07-19-2013
Playtime and summertime go together, and play is important in children's development and learning. It develops creativity and imagination, and allows children to make their own choices. Play-based learning takes children on adventures of their own choosing. Play is why young children love the book, Not a Box by Antoinette Portis. This simple, yet endearing book illustrates the adventures children experience while playing with a cardboard box. Yes, you read that correctly – a cardboard box....
