A Sick Day for Amos McGee

Book review by Kate Pavao, Common Sense Media
A Sick Day for Amos McGee Poster Image

Common Sense says

age 4+

2011 Caldecott winner celebrates caring for one another.

Philip C. Stead Picture Book 2010
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age 5+

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What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that A Sick Day for Amos McGee, by Philip C. Stead and illustrated by Erin E Stead, won the 2011 Caldecott Medal for best picture book, and it's easy to see why. Woodblock illustrations in mostly soft colors -- and a bright red balloon -- draw readers into this gentle tale about the importance of kindness and taking care of others. Because Amos has spent so much time being a friend to the animals at the zoo, they are there for him when he needs them most.

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What's the Story?

When a kindly zoo keeper wakes up feeling sick, he must stay home. So, the animals he faithfully looks after decide to come to his house to take care of him -- and cheer him up.

Is It Any Good?

This is a beautiful book about kindness told through simple text and illustrations. Readers will certainly feel Amos's joy when his animal friends appear at his house, a penguin carrying a bright red balloon ("Hooray! My friends are here!").

Woodblock illustrations with mostly soft colors -- and a bright red balloon -- draw readers into this gentle tale. As families reread this book, kids will have fun noticing small details, such as the turtle caring a tea tray on its shell, or the elephant curled up with a teddy bear on the last page. And they'll have no trouble picking up on the book's sweet message about the importance of taking care of others.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how the animals take care of their zookeeper in A Sick Day for Amos McGee. What are some things that you like when you are sick -- playing games, having tea, snuggling? What are some things you can do for other family members when they're not feeling well?

  • Why do you think the animals decided to pay Amos a visit at his house? Were they just lonely -- or was it something else?

  • Why is it important to take care of others in need?

Book Details

Our Editors Recommend

For kids who love picture books

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