Play With Me (children's book) facts for kids

Play with Me is a classic picture book from 1955, created by the talented author and illustrator Marie Hall Ets. This charming story follows a young girl as she explores a sunny meadow, hoping to make friends with the animals living there. The book is especially known for its beautiful pictures, which earned it a 1956 Caldecott Honor.

About the Story

Play with Me takes readers on a gentle adventure through nature. It shows how a little girl learns to be patient and quiet to connect with wild animals. The book teaches us about respecting nature and finding joy in simple moments.

What Happens in the Book?

The story begins with a curious girl who wants to play with the animals in a meadow. She sees a grasshopper, a frog, a turtle, and other creatures. Each time she tries to get close, the animals hop, jump, or swim away. The girl feels a little sad because they don't want to play.

Then, she decides to try something different. Instead of chasing them, she sits very still and waits. Slowly, one by one, the animals become curious about her. They start to come closer. This teaches the girl that sometimes the best way to make friends, especially with animals, is to be calm and let them come to you.

What Can We Learn from the Book?

This book shares several important messages. It teaches us about patience and understanding. The girl learns that chasing animals scares them away. By being still and quiet, she shows respect for their space. This helps her build trust with them. The story also encourages us to explore nature and appreciate the creatures around us. It reminds us that even small moments in a meadow can be full of wonder.

Meet the Author and Illustrator

Marie Hall Ets was a special person who wrote and drew many beloved children's books. She had a unique way of telling stories that connected with young readers. Her books often featured animals and nature, showing her deep love for the natural world.

Who Was Marie Hall Ets?

Marie Hall Ets was born in Wisconsin in 1895. Before she became a famous children's author, she worked in different fields, including social work. Her experiences helped her understand children and their feelings. She started writing and illustrating books later in her life, creating stories that are still enjoyed today. She was known for her simple, yet powerful, storytelling and her gentle illustrations.

Her Style of Art

Marie Hall Ets used a very soft and inviting style for her illustrations. In Play with Me, she used black and white drawings with touches of color. This simple approach helps readers focus on the characters and their emotions. Her drawings of animals are very lifelike and show their natural movements. This makes the meadow feel real and alive, drawing young readers into the story.

Awards and Recognition

Play with Me received a special award called the Caldecott Honor. This award is a big deal in the world of children's books. It means the book's illustrations were considered some of the best of the year.

What is the Caldecott Honor?

The Caldecott Medal is an annual award given to the artist of the most distinguished American picture book for children. The Caldecott Honor is given to other books that are also considered outstanding, but did not win the main medal. Winning a Caldecott Honor means a book's artwork is truly exceptional and has made a significant contribution to children's literature. It is a highly respected award.

Why Did "Play with Me" Win?

Play with Me earned its Caldecott Honor because of Marie Hall Ets's beautiful and expressive illustrations. The judges recognized how well her artwork told the story and captured the gentle spirit of the book. The way she drew the animals and the girl, and how she showed their interactions, made the book stand out. Her illustrations perfectly matched the simple, heartfelt message of the story.