The Snowy Day

by Ezra Jack Keats
The Snowy Day cover
Good Books rating 4.5
Children's Fiction
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  • ID: 775
  • Added: 2025-09-20
  • Updated: 2025-10-13
  • ISBN: 9780670654000
  • Publisher: Viking Books for Young Readers
  • Published: 1962-11-05
  • Reviews: 4

The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats is a beloved picture book that beautifully captures the wonder and joy of a child's first snowfall. This celebrated classic has been shared by generations of readers and listeners, making it a must-have for every child's bookshelf. The story follows a little boy named Peter as he explores the deep, deep snow, experiencing the quiet fun and sweetness of his small adventures. The book's universal appeal and timeless illustrations make it perfect for reading together on a cozy winter day. Ezra Jack Keats, the creator of this classic, was also known for other beloved works such as Goggles, A Letter to Amy, and Peter’s Chair. The Snowy Day has been recognized as the New York Public Library's #1 book on the list of “Top Check Outs of All Time,” highlighting its enduring popularity and impact on young readers.

Reviews
Books for Topics · 2025-10-08
heartwarming 4.75

The story beautifully depicts a child's wonder at a new world and the hope of capturing that wonder forever.

The reviewer finds the story to be universally appealing, beautifully depicting a child's sense of wonder and the magic of a snowy day. They appreciate the quiet, reflective tone of the book and its ability to capture the essence of childhood wonder. The reviewer also notes the book's timeless appeal and its ability to resonate with readers of all ages.

Quick quotes

    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, reflective tone of the book captures the essence of childhood wonder.

    The book's timeless appeal resonates with readers of all ages.

Cannonball Read · 2025-01-22
heartwarming 4.50

The book is a classic for a reason, capturing the essence of a child's joy in playing in the snow. It is a cozy and heartwarming story that appeals to all ages.

The reviewer from Cannonball Read considers The Snowy Day a classic that stands the test of time. They appreciate how the book beautifully captures the simple joys of a child's snowy day, making it a cozy and heartwarming read. The reviewer believes the book's universal appeal lies in its ability to evoke nostalgia and warmth, regardless of the reader's age. They also highlight how the book's illustrations enhance the story, making it a visual treat as well as a literary one.

Quick quotes

    The Snowy Day is a classic for a reason.

    It tells the story of a little boy named Peter, and the day he spends playing in the snow.

    A cozy and heartwarming story that appeals to all ages.

Electric Literature · 2021-09-14
insightful 4.00

The book is noted for its poetic text and real-world surrealism, making it a standout in children's literature. The reviewer reflects on the book's deeper themes and its impact on readers.

Electric Literature delves into the poetic and surreal nature of 'The Snowy Day,' highlighting how it strikes a perfect balance between fantasy and reality. The reviewer reflects on the book's deeper themes, including its representation of race and black characters in children's literature. They appreciate the book's ability to captivate young readers while also offering a meaningful narrative that resonates with adults. The text is praised for its simplicity and depth, making it a model for children's books.

Quick quotes

    The text is perfectly poetic, at once surreal and yet so real.

    A hard note to strike, as anyone who's ever tried to write for small children.

    A model for treating black characters in children's books.

The Atlantic · 2020-01-16
enduring 4.75

The book's enduring popularity is attributed to its ability to capture the imagination of children and families. It is celebrated for its universal themes and timeless appeal.

The Atlantic explores why 'The Snowy Day' has remained a favorite among children and families for generations. The reviewer notes that the book's universal themes of wonder and discovery make it a timeless classic. They highlight the book's ability to evoke a sense of joy and nostalgia, making it a beloved read for both children and adults. The reviewer also discusses the book's cultural significance and its role in shaping children's literature.

Quick quotes

    Kids and families love Ezra Jack Keats's The Snowy Day so much that they've checked it out of the New York Public Library system more than any other book.

    A timeless classic that captures the imagination of children.

    Universal themes of wonder and discovery.

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