Keats used fine-art techniques—from painting, paper crafts and other mediums—to enhance his book illustrations. Here are child-ready projects adapted from the pages of Ezra’s books.
1. Snowflakes
Homemade snowflake stamps make The Snowy Day sparkle. These snowflake ideas will do the same for you! (Hands on as We Grow)
2. Collage
Ezra used collage for the first time in The Snowy Day, and liked it so much he used it in Whistle for Willie, Jennie’s Hat, Louis and others. Collages can be made with a variety of materials for very different results. (Scholastic, The Artful Parent)
3. Marbeling
Marbled paper adds extra drama to A Letter to Amy, Dreams and Over in the Meadow. These marbling methods, using child-safe ingredients, will give your pictures a dramatic flair! (Surf Excel, Eric Carle Museum)
4. Paper bag mask
Archie makes a crazy costume out of a paper bag in Hi, Cat! You can, too! (Kitty Cooks)
5. Hats
Do you have a head for fancy hats, like Jennie in Jennie’s Hat? Have fun and fashion one (birds not included). (Keats Lesson Plan, First Palette)
6. Puppets
Puppets are important in Louie—and in cultures around the world. The best part is, they’re also fun to make! (Kidspot)