After going through his regular morning routines at home, Amos McGee heads off to work as a zookeeper. He always has plenty of time to be truly present with his animal friends. He plays chess with the elephant, runs races with the tortoise, sits quietly with the penguin, lends a handkerchief to the rhinoceros, and reads stories to the owl. But then one day, Amos is sick and comes down with sniffles, sneezes, and chills. His animal friends miss him and are at a loss as to what to do without him. But later in the day they come up with a plan that makes them all feel good.
This loveable children's picture book aimed at youngsters four through eight is the creation of a talented husband and wife team: writer Philip Stead and illustrator Erin Stead. He has come up with an endearing tale of friendship and the reciprocal nature of kindness that has universal appeal; she has fashioned wonderful animals and rendered the story with soft colors. A Sick Day for Amos McGee is a Caldecott Medal winner and a New York Times Best Illustrated Children's Book Awards winner.
