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Snow (by Cynthia Rylant)

common sense media says

Words and artwork create a magical winter wonderland.


parents & educators say

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that the words and pictures of this book celebrate the many moods of snow, from the first flake that swirls to the ground to the moment when snowdrifts have blanketed the entire world outside. Those who have lived in snow will recognize the different stages, and feelings. Those who have never had the experience will want to get acquainted.

Positive messages: The little girl shares tender moments with her grandmother, peering out the window, reading books, sharing stories and dreams about their garden, and walking through a snowy evening.
Violence & scariness: Not applicable.
Language: Not applicable.

More on Snow

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about snowflakes. They should start by noticing the single tiny flake inside the front cover, and then watching as it grows larger on the following pages until it becomes part of the swirling snow storm. Have you ever watched a snow storm begin? What do you think the little girl is thinking as she gazes out her window? Would you rather watch the snow build throughout the day, or wake in the morning to find it has covered the trees and lawns? Why did the author describe the nighttime snow as a "shy friend afraid to knock?" What does that tell you about the snowfall? What is your favorite thing to do in the snow?

What's the story?

What's the story?

This book celebrates falling snow and the different kinds of feelings and moods it evokes. Primarily told through the eyes of a young girl and her grandmother, it begins with one tiny flake that becomes a full-fledged snowfall. Rather than being a story of their day, it's more a description of the different experiences people have of snow, how it falls, and how it changes the world. Snow might quietly fill the world at night, drift down enticingly outside the window during the day, whirl and swirl, drive people indoors, or call them outside to play. It stirs up a cheerful excitement, but also silences a noisy world. Most of all, it brings a comfortable, magical joy to the winter world.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
With a tone as delicate as the first tiny snowflake that begins to fall inside its front cover, SNOW captures the many joys of snowy days in both its simple, beautiful text and icy blue-toned acrylic artwork. It's hard to describe how the words create such a magical tone, but somehow they do. Obviously they have been written by someone who knows what she is talking about. With a text that is gently poetic and touchingly genuine, Cynthia Rylant expresses what truly must be her love of snowy days and nights. And Lauren Stringer's snow-filled illustrations capture the tone perfectly. Peaceful scenes are quiet and cold, joyful scenes squeal with excitement, and cozy scenes couldn't be cozier.

Book themes & details

Book Details
Author: Cynthia Rylant
Illustrator: Lauren Stringer
Publisher: Harcourt
Publication date: November 1, 2008
Number of pages: 40
Hardcover price: $17.00
Read Aloud: 3
Read Alone: 7

This review was written by Patricia Tauzer
 
 

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ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child, some content may not be right for some kids
OFF: Not age appropriate for kids this age