I love this book, and you definitely honored it well. I know this isn't what you are asking about, but I've had so many conversations the past few years about humor and awards. I'd love to hear your thoughts on all that :)
A slam dunk of all the reasons why this book is so outstanding!
The copyright page confirms the use of scratchboard- I was also reminded of the childhood drawing pads. Pitch perfect choice.
As an artist I love a giant foldout, but as a library worker they make me cringe. This one is so impactful, I will weep to see it inevitably torn after repeated readings.
This book took me on an emotional journey -- past present, little big, quiet loud, sad happy. A stunner. Thanks for your thoughts and another opportunity to sit at the fire.
"In lesser picture books, the half-title page is a throwaway, but great illustrators know it’s an opportunity to set the tone for the whole book." I always have plans here, but my books are usually "finish as quickly as possible, no time for extra illustrations for that page." :(
I have not seen this book in person yet but now I can’t wait. What beautiful illustrations that capture so much of the story. The fireworks were almost better than seeing actual fireworks!
I am really enjoying your analyses of possible Caldecott winners and gives me a new perspective into not only the illustrations but exactly how they impact story and vice-versa. Thank you for these posts—I love them!
Also, my husband and I love the wonder of fireworks in general and they are always a highlight of our trips to Disney!
You certainly know how to dissect a picture book! I hate fireworks and the violence and terror they bring to mind (bombs). But you made me like the book.
I love this comment, Mary, because it reminds me how everyone on the Caldecott committee comes with their own point of view. I think lots of folks share that view. Thanks for your thoughts!
This book is magnificent! Just like the real thing 🎆 and I will say reading your description made it seem even more magical. You pointed out some things I hadn’t noticed, or at least noticed consciously, while reading it before! Thank you! This week we’ve been reading and talking about No More Chairs and paired it with A Place to Land.
Great analysis. My favorite book of the year! My other all-time favorite book with a poster (but is it a garage door? I guess so!) is SEASONS by John Burningham. It’s exciting to see it used here to awesome effect in FIREWORKS.
Let me know which *2026* book you all think I should cover next in this series (for Caldecott 2027).
I love this book, and you definitely honored it well. I know this isn't what you are asking about, but I've had so many conversations the past few years about humor and awards. I'd love to hear your thoughts on all that :)
You just gave me a great future post idea! Thank you, Rachel!
Yay, can’t wait!
Thank you for dissecting each spread! This one has my vote! What an outstanding picture book!
I get chills on that last page every time. Such a perfect book, Catia is a treasure. Longest LetsgoBoy is one of my favorites and now this!
I was just looking at that book again last week - so well done
A slam dunk of all the reasons why this book is so outstanding!
The copyright page confirms the use of scratchboard- I was also reminded of the childhood drawing pads. Pitch perfect choice.
As an artist I love a giant foldout, but as a library worker they make me cringe. This one is so impactful, I will weep to see it inevitably torn after repeated readings.
Ha - I hear you on gatefolds in a library setting. We definitely have our fair share of taped-up foldouts!
Love love love this picture book dissection. What a gorgeous book!!
Thanks Alli!
This book took me on an emotional journey -- past present, little big, quiet loud, sad happy. A stunner. Thanks for your thoughts and another opportunity to sit at the fire.
It was great getting to really get into the specifics on this book
"In lesser picture books, the half-title page is a throwaway, but great illustrators know it’s an opportunity to set the tone for the whole book." I always have plans here, but my books are usually "finish as quickly as possible, no time for extra illustrations for that page." :(
Truth! Sometimes it’s like, “Jeez, what’s the rush?”
Loving these page-by-page dive-ins! Thank you!
Thanks, Katy - I have a blast doing these, so I appreciate you taking the time to read them!
This one is at the top of my list! The illustrations and writing are gorgeous!
Cool to hear we’re feeling the same way about this one, Robyn!
I have not seen this book in person yet but now I can’t wait. What beautiful illustrations that capture so much of the story. The fireworks were almost better than seeing actual fireworks!
Definitely better than most fireworks shows
I am really enjoying your analyses of possible Caldecott winners and gives me a new perspective into not only the illustrations but exactly how they impact story and vice-versa. Thank you for these posts—I love them!
Also, my husband and I love the wonder of fireworks in general and they are always a highlight of our trips to Disney!
Thanks, Christine!
You certainly know how to dissect a picture book! I hate fireworks and the violence and terror they bring to mind (bombs). But you made me like the book.
I love this comment, Mary, because it reminds me how everyone on the Caldecott committee comes with their own point of view. I think lots of folks share that view. Thanks for your thoughts!
This book is magnificent! Just like the real thing 🎆 and I will say reading your description made it seem even more magical. You pointed out some things I hadn’t noticed, or at least noticed consciously, while reading it before! Thank you! This week we’ve been reading and talking about No More Chairs and paired it with A Place to Land.
Thank you for reading, Laura!
Wow, I loved this one!! It had me smiling to myself the whole time, stunning and warm.
It’s fantastic from beginning to end. Thanks for your comment!
Your analysis is perfection! Thank you for writing these posts.
Would you consider Matthew Cordell's TO SEE AN OWL?
A great suggestion! What a beautiful book. Thank you!
Wowee! What an incredible book! 😍
Thanks for reading, Caroline!
Great analysis. My favorite book of the year! My other all-time favorite book with a poster (but is it a garage door? I guess so!) is SEASONS by John Burningham. It’s exciting to see it used here to awesome effect in FIREWORKS.
Oh man - I really love the Burningham! Thanks for this!