Each year a new children’s picture book earns the highly distinguished Caldecott medal. This golden stamp that adorns the jacket cover is an award for the illustrator’s captivating work of art. The recipient of the 2011 Caldecott medal is a simple, endearing book called “A Sick Day for Amos McGee.” Erin Stead is the talented illustrator who created this book in cooperation with author/husband, Philip Stead.

The story is about a zookeeper named Amos who lovingly cares for the animals day in and day out. But what happens when Amos is sick and needs a caretaker himself? Well, the elephant, rhinoceros, turtle and other zoo creatures step up to the plate and deliver a heartwarming display of friendship and compassion.

When sharing this story with your nieces and nephews, take your time and soak in the details of the woodblock and hand-drawn illustrations. The delicate sketches and hints of color complement the storyline perfectly.  

To read more about Erin Stead and her process in creating the pictures for this year’s Caldecott winner, you will want to hop over to her website for a visit. Only then will you truly appreciate the amount of thought and hours of work that go into each and every page of this year’s worthy winner.

Published: February 15, 2011