I was saddened to hear of the passing of the Caldecott winning artist John Schoenherr earlier in this month. It is funny how we just take it for granted that people are going to be around forever. I thought I would honor him today and talk about his winning book as it has always been one of my favorites.
Owl Moon
by Jane Yolen and illustrated by John Schoenherr won the Caldecott in 1988. I have always loved this book not just for the sweet story of a girl and her father but because the illustrations are the kind that are so powerful even in their quietness. This is a perfect example of what should win awards. Mr Schoenherr totally captures the the feelings of walking at night in the snow. This is one of those must have titles especially as it is about a father and daughter bonding....I never knew John Schoenherr was also an accomplished commercial artist. He was more than a children's illustrator but also illusrated Science Fiction novels such as Dune
and the covers for Anne McCaffrey's books. I also was not aware that he is a fellow New Jerseyan. He also did the covers for Jean Craighead George's Julie of the Wolves
, the original cover is wonderful because we can feel the coldness of Alaska. John Schoenherr was truly a wonderful artist who contributed so much that he will be missed.
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