I'm Going to Build a Snowman

by Jashar Awan

In this sparkling picture book celebration of winter and creativity, a boy’s snow day efforts show that perfection is relative and what’s important is taking pride in what you do!

When a little boy wakes up to see a blanket of snow covering the world outside, there’s only one thing to do: make a snowman, and not just any snowman—he wants the best snowman ever. But when his perfectly packed and powdery dreams clash with cold, slushy reality, he realizes the best snowman ever may be out of reach…but he can make his best snowman yet.

Genres: Picture Books, Storytime, Childrens, Humor, Fiction, Christmas, Nature

48 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 19, 2023

Reviews

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m Going to Build a Snowman is pure winter joy!

A young boy heads outside to build the best snowman ever. The results might not look like the sparkling perfection in his head, but his snowman IS perfect because he made it. He had a goal, he tried, and he created. That’s perfect in my book.

A wonderful winter read with a big lesson and big smiles. The smiles alone are worth the read. :)

Highly recommended.

[Kelly {SpaceOnTheBookcase] · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book for young readers, I’m Going to Build A Snowman shows that perfection comes in many different ways. A young boy is excited to build a perfect snowman but when his snowman doesn’t look perfect he rolls with it and shows pride in his work. A cute book with a great theme!

Thank you Simon Kids for gifting me a copy to review.

[Peacegal · Rating 4 out of 5]

The differences between our expectations and reality (and the fact that the messier version can be great, too) are on display in this laugh-out-loud book. The illustrations have a classic, retro quality, and there are nods to favorite snowman-centered holiday specials.

[Shanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Too cute! Reminds me a bit of The Snowy Day in its artistic appearance. A little boy wants to build a snowman and he puts on his boots, hat, coat and mittens to go outside. Then, he dreams of what kind of snowman he will build. Will his real snowman look like the one of his dreams? Find out. :)

Mia’s Year of Books: Day 326

[Cara Byrne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book! Sometimes you begin a project with expectations of perfection and evenness, but the results don't quite match that. However, with a positive attitude and a creative touch, one's creation is still worth celebrating. It's a perfect book for snowman makers!

[Chandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute illustrations! Beauty is in the eye of the beholder....and he was pleased with his beautiful Snowman! I so chuckled with this story.

[Tory]

The art and story in this book are so STINKIN adorable I can't take it and also this child is clearly a fan of Raymond Briggs' The Snowman (1982) which... same, so a good time was had by all

[Sarah BT]

Cute! A great addition to winter storytimes.

[Angela De Groot · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love the art and the kid in this book. His enthusiasm is infectious.

[SamSamSam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very very sweet! All ages, toddler+
PLAY, TALK, narrative skills

[Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

gorgeous illustrations and a wholesome, relatable story about how the snowman we actually build never reaches the snowman of our expectations (and that's okay!)

[Amy Oberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a librarian who facilitates seasonal Story Times for preschool children, I am perpetually on the lookout for "fresh" stories that reinforce skills/concepts, as well as introduce *unexpected* or creative perspectives. "I'm Going to Build a Snowman" wins the award for "best new release about a winter topic on which I have 100+ stories" (i.e., snowmen) because of its compelling message: Everyone dreams about capitalizing on freshly fallen snow to create arctic masterpieces...but what happens when such creations do not match self-imposed expectations? Young audiences--as well as their siblings and caregivers--are sure to be enthralled by how the main character chooses to respond in this situation...and the captivating illustrations with "just the right" amount of text don't berate the listener/reader with didactic messages. Such an unexpected treasure!

Publication Date: 2023
Format: Picture book
Elements: Bold illustrations created using charcoal and digitally colored using Adobe Creative Cloud; limited text in bold typefaces; subtle change in presentation to convey moments of "imagination" versus real-life play in/outdoors
Connection/Topics: Winter/snow/snowmen; outdoor play; managing expectations (differences between dreams and implementation); capturing moments

[Caroline · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely delightful picture book about a little boy who is so excited to make a snowman -- a perfect snowman. Hilariously realistic, the simplified block illustrations feel like an updated classic picture book -- which this very much is. Read alongside or in place of The Snowy Day, The Snowman, and other snow people faves.

[Morton Public Library · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bold illustrations | Imagination | Perfect for sharing (appeal terms from NoveList) - Emma

[Olivia]

I'M GOING TO BUILD A SNOWMAN is a sweet wintery picture book read about a young boy who is making his best snowman yet. When he sees it has snowed outside, he is excited to make the most perfect snowman. He knows the steps, and he goes out to make the snowman. While it may not be the perfect snowman he had imagined, it is his best snowman yet, and he is proud of it.

What I loved: This is a simple and cute story that readers can empathize with. The story is told in the first person by the boy who is building the snowman. The story uses images to tell what is happening more than the text, so this will work best for preschool and older picture book readers who can understand the complexities of expressions and images along the way. The images are whimsical, capturing the magic of a snow day and the joy of making a snowman.

The book also includes lots of sound words along the way, which will appeal to young readers. The font is large, clear, and easy to read throughout, making it a good pick for reading aloud. There are great messages about doing your best and pride in your work, even when it might not seem perfect.

Final verdict: I'M GOING TO BUILD A SNOWMAN is a simple and sweet picture book about one boy's quest to create the perfect snowman and his success in trying his best.

Please note that I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.

[Janet Squires · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm Going to Build a Snowman, written and illustrated, by Jashar Awan is a delightful winter treat that is sure to be a favorite read aloud.

“Mom! It snowed! You know what that means…” For this little boy it is building the perfect snowman. He imagines it will be easy. He knows all the steps—roll three perfect balls of snow and decorate to create the iconic top-hat wearing snowman who can sing, dance and fly!

But, as life often teaches us, perfection can sometimes be out of reach. Despite his determination and effort, the child’s creation falls short of his expectations…until he adjusts his goal to embrace the success of building the best snowman YET!

This ALA 2023 Notable Book is a charming reminder to find joy in the journey of creation regardless of the result.

Awan’s minimalist narrative utilizes simple vocabulary and short sentences to keep the text tightly focused and accessible for young readers. An imaginative use of onomatopoeia will be sure to bring forth giggles—”ziiiip” and “fwump” as he closes his jacket and pulls on his cap is later followed by “Sssssslump” as the snowman threatens to fall. Bold colors and high contrast imagery provides powerful visual impact with every turn of the page.

A perfect picture book for the season.

Highly recommended for both home and school libraries.

[Stephanie Bange · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cuddle up with this and a cup of hot chocolate on a snowy day. (Be sure to check to see the secret cover under the book jacket!)

After he wakes up on a snowy day, a young boy describes how he plans to create "The Best Snowman Ever". After he builds his snowman and makes a few corrections, he asks his mom to take pictures of him and "My Best Snowman Yet!"

Many kids will see themselves in this cozy story by Awan. It feels natural and relaxed - the child creates something they "see" in their mind, steps back to see it's not quite what they had pictured, makes an adjustment, then proudly shows off their handiwork. The simple, direct text makes this book useful for beginning readers. Awan's charcoal pencil artwork is colored digitally with Adobe. Artwork that depicts the child's vision of the day are in black and white with one solid color. Reality is depicted in full color. Jawan makes great use of onomatopoeia (set in a sans serif font) for sounds that jump off the page, with the story line set in Strange Times (a serif font that is a bit wiggly and unsteady - like a new reader).

Pair this with Ezra Jack Keats' The Snowy Day for a slushy snowy adventure indoors on a snowy day.

Highly Recommended for PreS-grade 1.

[Sym K. · Rating 4 out of 5]

What do you do when your snowman does not look like the perfect snowman you had envisioned? You appreciate the one you do end up making, give yourself a pat on the back for your efforts and smile big for the picture with your BEST SNOWMAN YET!

A sweet story about a boy who is sure he would make the best snowman ever. He knows all the right steps, all the right things needed for it, but . . . his snowman ends up looking a bit sloppy, not the perfect circles on top of circles that he had in mind. But this was his snowman and he was proud of it.

If you have read the classic, The Snowman, this would feel like a sweet homage to it.

Great addition to a winter themed storytime. Can be read along with classics such as The Snowman and The Snowy Day, or new favorites such as Just One Flake.

Author/Illustrator: Jashar Awan
Recommended Age: 4 - 8
Recommended Grade Level: K - 3
Publisher: Simon and Schuster Books for young Readers
Publication Date: September 2023

[Roben · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! I really loved this book. A young child wakes up to the wonder of snow! And decides to build the perfect snowman. We are walked through all the steps -- and then once all the clothes are put on - comes the actual build. Once the masterpiece is beheld, we read - "Something isn't right." Where do your thoughts go? Comparing this snowman to the perfect one? Not our young builder. There just needs one perfect finishing touch and it is the best snowman yet. Take a picture mom!
There are lots of noise words to zip and zing along with. And the illustrations are lovely - so many colors! That purple behind the flying snowman is simply gorgeous.

I live in Texas and we don't get a lot of snow. Most of the snowmen I see in my neighborhood are certainly not ideal snowmen! This is a true celebration of a creation that is perfect in the eye of the beholder.

[Mia Donatelli · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jashar Awan's children's book "I'm Going to Build a Snowman" highlights the wonder and excitement of winter play. Young readers are drawn into an imaginative universe by Awan from the first page, where the straightforward act of making a snowman brings imagination and inventiveness to life. I particularly like the lively illustrations; they make the story come to life and create a happy mood that goes well with the overall story. I believe that young readers are encouraged to participate by the texts interactive and repeated structure, which is great for language development! The text is wonderfully complemented by the captivating illustrations. This book is a great option for story time because of its themes of friendship, cooperation, and the happiness of winter. By encouraging outdoor play and embracing the beauty of the season, it helps children imagine what a snowy day can bring!

[Calista · Rating 3 out of 5]

A great comedy. We see the ideal of the best snowman in this boy's head. He's so excited to build a snowman. He has all these plans. The snow arrives and he gets ready and he builds his snowman. It turns out to be one of the ugliest snowmen every with grass in it and all wonky and yet, to the boy, it's perfect. When we put our love into something, the imperfections no longer matter. Isn't that interesting.

When you think of the world that way, our world really has a lot of work to do.

The art is charcoaled pencil and colored digitally. The art is fine. It hits the humor of the snowman home great, but it doesn't really get across the magic of a snow day.

Kids who love their snowday will love this.

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

1 sentence per page. About a boy who makes the best snowman ever! He teaches the reader how to make a snowman, and then makes his own outside - but it doesn’t turn out how he wants at first. He puts a nose on it and is happy and asks his mom to take a photo and goes to bed happy. Very wholesome and simple. Art style is simple with not much detail and solid, main colors used, but I really loved the kid’s facial expressions as he determinedly rolls the snowman balls. Brown kid rep! And the mom is present helping the kid not forget to be warmly dressed and “clicks” her camera from inside LOL when the kid asks for a photo. Would be good to read for storytimes since it’s short and sweet.

[Katie Hutchison Irion · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m Going To Build a Snowman by Jashar Awan is a delightfully cute and adorable tale of a young man who is desperate to have it snow so he can build a snowman. The minute he wakes up and sees snow outside he is ready to build a snowman. He eats breakfast and gets ready and he is outside before you know it. The reader follows him as he builds this snowman and decorates it. It is a simple story but the young boy is just endearing and his snowman will bring back memories of the snowmen you’ve built or your kids have built. THe illustrations are whimsical and filled with joy.

[Marian Librarian · Rating 4 out of 5]

01/06/26 "I'm going to build the best snowman ever!" shouts the main character. And you know what? I like this kid's moxie!

He dreams of making a perfectly circular snowman who sings, dances, and then flies away in the night sky. ("We're walking in the aiiiiiir!" Shoutout to all of you who know this reference!) He follows through with his bold plan and makes a snowman-like figure. It's lumpy and full of grass and dirt and looks...rough. And it is the best snowman he has made to date and he's so proud of it! A tip of the fuzzy pom-pom cap to Jashar Awan for this winter gem.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Snowy Day is one of my favorite picture books from my childhood, and this book felt like a modern, updated version of The Snowy Day. I loved all the fun-sounding words in the book, like munch, crunch, zip, pull, snoring, etc... The colors were bright and inviting, and the boy's joy just radiated from the pages. I think we all turn into this little kid when it snows outside, at least we do in Texas since it happens so rarely.

[Dawn Foster · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've recently discovered author/illustrator Jashar Awan and have fallen in love with his color palette, simple stories, and fresh take on common picture book themes. I'm Going to Build a Snowman creatively tells the story of Max who can't wait to build "the best snowman ever" but faces the reality of what his first snowman of the season really looks like. Heartwarming, understated, and oh, so poignant.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a great attitude this kid has! We should all be so ready to face whatever challenges life offers!! I remember making the kind of snowman he does, and being so disenchanted that I never did much more, instead staying inside to read....

Recommended whether or not your family sees snow. The fact that reality doesn't look like classic picture books nor like influencers' posts is a universal truth.

[Elaine Fultz, Teacher Librarian, MLS · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have to believe every snow-themed book with a kid in a red toque is a nod to Snowy Day, as is proper. (Wolf in the Snow comes to mind, too.) In this book, our MC is a little dude imagining the perfect snowman as he's gearing up to go outside. When he finally makes the snowperson, it is lopsided and a little dirty, and it's perfect. Lovely new addition to the bountiful snowy picture book world.

[TheRetiredSchoolLibrarian |Mrs. Ferraris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brief summary: A little boy wakes to see that it has snowed. After eating his breakfast and putting on all of his snow gear, he is determined to build the BEST SNOWMAN EVER.

Comments: The story explores how one's expectations may not be realistic but still can be enjoyable in a positive mindset.

Rating: 4/5 📗📗📗📗

[Erin Buhr · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'M GOING TO BUILD A SNOWMAN has somewhat THE SNOWY DAY vibes but Jashar Awan leans into the humor in a way that is quietly hilarious. The little boy in this story wakes up to fresh snow and is determined to make the perfect snowman. He knows exactly what that looks like and has a plan. The reality is of course a little different. Darling. Heartwarming. A delight.