Snow Day

Snow Day by Sam Usher (Koala Books)

HB RRP $19.99

ISBN 978-1-74276-116-9

Reviewed by Jenny Heslop

Imagine the excitement off waking up to a world covered in snow. When this happens for one little boy he is impatient to go outside and play, but Granddad is SO slow at getting ready. What if they miss all the fun?

This is a beautifully simple story about the frustrations of waiting and of the joyful surprises which may be just around the corner. Some things are definitely worth the wait.

The language of Snow Day is straightforward and flows in a deeply satisfying way. As Granddad slowly gets ready…         

          'I said, "Don't forget the snow!'

          And he said, “Don’t forget your scarf!"

This exchange forms part of the rhythm of the story, as does the wide, white expanse of snow which starts off clean and fresh, but is slowly filled with footprints, then people, then neighborhood dogs as the young boy sits on his front steps waiting for Granddad.

The crisp, clear illustrations evoke feelings of a sunny but cold day, just what’s required for the perfect snow day. And it is through these pictures the surprise is slowly revealed.

This is a happy book, full of wonder, imagination and fun. And being a large, sturdy hardback it should be up to countless.