Amos McGee Misses the Bus by Philip C. Stead and Erin E. Stead
| Beloved picture book character Amos McGee is back with a new story. Caldecott Award-winning duo Philip C. Stead and Erin E. Stead revisit this gentle zookeeper as he plans a special outing for his animal friends. McGee is so involved with these preparations that exhaustion eventually sets in. He nods off at the bus stop and misses his ride. Eventually he arrives at work but falls asleep on the job. His animal friends note their keeper’s exhaustion and decide to assume his duties. Elephant picks up a broom, turtle retrieves a forgotten hat, owl offers visitors important conservation guidelines, and rhinoceros feeds smaller animals. While the others are hard at work, thoughtful penguin ensures that their caretaker rests without disruptions. |  |
Philip C. Stead's text glows with understated charm. The juxtaposition of large animals performing small jobs is part of the book's appeal. Erin E. Stead's line drawings paired with woodcut prints add just the right touch of whimsy. Her illustrations are filled with hidden surprises. Readers will observe that a teddy bear, bunny slippers, tiny mouse and bird inhabit the zookeeper's home, a fitting homage to his occupation. Turtle’s progress throughout the pages ingeniously marks the passage of time.
While it is possible to analyze the book, locating themes of friendship, forgiveness, helpfulness, and cooperation, perhaps like Amos McGee, it is best to keep things simple. This is a quiet little gem, to be savored and shared. It retains its charm with subsequent readings. Readers will love the characters, the dilemma, and the resolution. Quite simply, Amos McGee Misses the Bus is a book to love. Over and over again.
 | The Stead's have one more sweet surprise: a giraffe! His long neck rises above the sunroof, the foliage forming a heart shape. Note the license plate, soaring balloon, and bird mouse duo closing out the scene. So many charming touches to be discovered. |
Illustration Technique: Wood block printing
| Erin E. Stead explains the process of wood block printing. Try making prints using Styrofoam plates. Off the Shelf offers an online printmaking tutorial. |  |
Electronic copy provided by publisher.
Pub date: November 23, 2021 Publisher: Roaring Brook Press ISBN: 978-1250213228
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