Bibliographic Information:
Keats, Ezra Jack. The Snowy Day. New York: Viking Penguin Inc, 1962.
Plot Description: A small boy wakes up to the delightful sight of fresh snow outside his bedroom window. He spends the day enjoying himself in the snow, so much so that he tries to bring some of that snow home with him, only to discover that snow does not last inside a warm home. Fortunately he is greeted again the next day by fresh snow.
Quantitative Reading Level: AD500L, GL K-1
Qualitative Reading Analysis: The watercolor illustrations complementing the story support the meaning of the text. Overall it is only a slightly complex read for early readers, with easy and familiar language composing simple sentences. The meaning of the text is transparent and simple, and even students who have not experienced a snowy day can easily access the story through the vivid illustrations.
Content Area: English Language Arts, Reading Literature
Content Area Standard(s):
CCSS for Reading Literature, Grade 1: 1) Ask and answer questions about key details in a text; 4) Identify words and phrases in stories or poems that suggest feelings or appeal to the senses; 7) Use illustrations and details in a story to describe its characters, setting, or events.
Curriculum Suggestions: The Snowy Day is an excellent winter-themed read aloud for Kindergarten or first grade students.
Supporting Digital Content: Student video biography of Ezra Jack Keats: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ytUze3SMIE
Awards: 1963 Caldecott Medal
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