By Micha Archer
Nancy Paulsen Books, 2021
Picture book, 32 pages, ages 3-7
Is the sun the world’s light bulb?
Is fog the river’s blanket?
I wonder.
Me too.
A girl and boy go on a wonder walk, spending the day exploring the world around them. They ask imaginative questions, never expecting answers, just finding delight in their world, as only children can.
An imaginative love letter to the natural world.
Wonder Walkers received a Caldecott Honor in 2021, and it’s easy to see why. It is a sumptuous book, filled with color, pattern, & textures. Micha Archer’s collage illustrations are exquisite. Readers will take their time poring over the artwork. In this case, the text supports the art, not the other way around.
The first time I read this book, I was blown away, and have continued to be amazed at the new nuggets I find with every reading.
Who will like this book? Any kid who likes a book rich in illustrations with lots of details. Artists and art lovers – it’s a great book to teach collage techniques and color theory to little artists. Teachers – there are many ways it could be incorporated into science, creative thinking, and writing lesson plans. Librarians – good for story times or activities.
Wonder Walkers by Micha Archer receives 5 stars from this reviewer.