I was introduced to this book by my daughter when she was about 6 years old. She was obsessed with doctors, germs, hospitals, and all manners of sickness, and scoured our local library for all books remotely related to sick people. Some of them (a whole series for small children with titles like "Rashes" and "Cuts, Bumps, and Bruises") were painful to read and reread (pun intended). "A Sick Day for Amos McGee" was a gem.
This book, written in 2010, is included in the New York Public Library's 100 Great Children's Books list. Written by Philip C. Stead and illustrated by his wife, Erin E. Stead, the book won the 2011 Caldecott Medal for its soft, timeless illustrations.
Amos McGee is a zookeeper who is very punctual and very predictable. He takes very good care of his animals. One day, Amos doesn't show up for work. His animals catch the bus to his house, and each one adds a little something special to his recovery.
This simple story celebrates the importance of knowing one's friends, and being able to relate to each one in their own way. You can extend the story with questions like "If your best friend were a zoo animal in Amos' zoo, which would they be and what would he do with them?" and "What details can you find in the illustrations that help you understand more about the animals and their relationship with Amos?".
I recommend that you read this book...seven times if you really like books about sick people.
Until we read again,
Mrs. I.
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