What's New, Daniel?

* “This gentle story recognizes the value of quiet simplicity, of stopping to notice little transformations in the world around us. Readers were introduced to Archer’s thoughtful, endearing protagonist in Daniel Finds a Poem, which mined delicate imagery from tiny slivers of nature. The sequel, Daniel’s Good Day, looked outward to the experiences of the young boy’s family and community. This latest entry combines the two approaches, using a get-together in the park with a beloved grandfather as the jumping-off point for a meditation on life and its many changes. When Grandpa asks him the titular question, Daniel takes off on his own, using his signature empathic connection with his surroundings to commune with tadpoles growing legs, redwing blackbirds fresh from a migratory flight, and even a rock silently soaking up the sun’s rays. As in the previous two books, Daniel summarizes these discoveries in a long descriptive passage, synthesizing his observations into a poetic but perfectly age-appropriate snapshot of his environment. Archer’s combination of acrylic ink and collage with patterned paper boasts as much eye-popping color and detail as ever. The lush spreads immerse readers in the hum and swish of a warm spring day at the park. Daniel himself is given a range of animated expressions and poses, loping across a string of pond rocks, throwing his arms wide to address a squirrel high up in a tree, gazing lovingly up at his grandpa’s face. An inviting celebration of the wonders of nature, and a highly recommended purchase for all collections.” —School Library Journal, starred review

* “Daniel is an inquisitive tyke, and when Grandpa asks him what’s new, the investigation is on. Daniel searches all over a lush park nestled at the center of the city. Stunning illustrations rendered in acrylic ink and patterned paper collage depict a bright and richly textured world as the child climbs his favorite rock beneath the warm sun and hears the whistling of redwing blackbirds flying by. . . . Snake, Squirrel, and Butterfly also add to the chorus of voices offering Daniel lively updates on what’s changing in the world around him. By the end, he’s more than prepared to answer Grandpa’s original question with details of the flora and fauna; he also tells Grandpa how his own recently discovered whistling ability, new tooth, and growing legs fit into the bigger picture of the natural world. . . . Featuring appealing, child-centered text and lush visuals, this tale will surely lead readers to more adventurous investigations of their own. . . . A beautiful invitation to spring for the curious nature lover.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review

* “The spare text has pleasing repetition, infectious energy, and a poetic, circular rhythm. . . . Caldecott Honor–winning author-illustrator Archer’s signature stunning collages, created with layered tissue paper and handmade stamps, are a glorious kaleidoscope of prismatic colors, textured patterns, and fresh perspectives. After taking the time to notice and appreciate the wonders of nature all around him, Daniel recounts his discoveries to his Grandpa. This exquisite, evergreen picture book is a natural conversation starter.” —Booklist, starred review

“Daniel is back in another open-hearted, child-friendly picture book. . . . Archer’s expertly composed double-page-spread illustrations . . . portray a world bursting with life and vivid color. . . . From the spectacular illustrations to the warm relationship between Daniel and Grandpa to Daniel’s curiosity about the natural world, there’s much to savor here; and the question of ‘what’s new?’ may elicit a wealth of reader response and interaction.” —The Horn Book