The American Library Association (ALA) began awarding the Caldecott Medal in 1938. The award is named after Randolph Caldecott, the famous 19th century English illustrator. The award is annually given to the American picture book deemed to have made the "most distinguished contribution" to the field of children’s literature.
Some of the most famous picture books since 1938 have won this prestigious prize. While all the winners have been outstanding, some have stood the test of time. One such book is the 1945 winner, "Prayer for a Child" by Rachel Field, which still cannot be recommended too highly.
"A Sick Day for Amos McGee" was announced as the winner of this high honor Jan. 10, 2011. It is an endearing book that will fill adult readers and children with pleasure.
Amos McGee is a man of faultless timing. Every morning he arises at the same time and makes himself a pot of tea. Then he makes a bowl of oatmeal and uses one teaspoon of sugar. Having contentedly started his day, Amos goes to the bus stop and waits.
When the bus pulls up at exactly 6 a.m., he takes out his pocket watch and states: "Right on time."
Amos rides the bus to the city zoo, where he is employed. He works diligently at the zoo, but has a deep interest in all the animals under his care. The zookeeper worries about the animals’ physical and mental health. Because of this, Amos always plays a game of chess with the elephant. For a man so dedicated to time, this is a great challenge, for the elephant must think and think before making a move.
Next, he moves on to the tortoise. Each day, to improve the tortoise’s spirit, he races him to the finish line. After the race the tortoise proudly smiles at Amos.
As he continues his rounds, he comes to the penguins’ pool. There Amos meets a very shy penguin needing some comfort. After that he goes to the yard of the rhinoceros. The rhino suffers greatly from allergies, and Amos wipes his great, horned nose and helps him to feel better.
At last Amos systematically visits the owl. The bird is greatly frightened by the night and needs to hear a story to settle down. All in all, each day ends pleasantly.
But one day, Amos wakes up and feels terrible. He begins coughing and sneezing and knows that he cannot go to the zoo. He lies back in bed, feeling terrible. The bus comes and Amos is not at the stop. The animals in the zoo are eagerly waiting for their dear zookeeper. As the day continues, he still doesn’t come to work. All the animals become alarmed and decide that something must be done. Where is Amos and what is is wrong with him? The animals decide to take action.
What decision do the animals make? How does their concern and love for Amos compel their actions? Do they find the zookeeper and help him?
Have you ever helped a sick person? Why is it so important to care for others? To find out, go to the library and check out this lovely book, "A Sick Day for Amos McGee," by Philip C. Stead.
This is simply a beautiful little story. It will make an outstanding book to share with younger children. Questions of care and consideration will naturally flow from the text and pictures. Do yourself a favor and read this charming book with a child you love.
Enjoy!
