I was fortunate to see the current Jerry Pinkney exhibition at the Eric Carle Museum. His art is extraordinary both in color and detail.
Some years ago Jerry was a presenter at the museum. I was there! I got to meet him. Lucky me.
What stands out to me as a preschool teacher and a lover of stories are his fairy tales. He is the master of re-telling these classic stories. And his illustrations are glorious. Reading his books to children is a joy.
Here is my beloved collection, which is small in the scope of his many fairy tales:
While hunting for worms and berries for her young ones,
she came upon some strange seeds. Ever so carefully
she scooped them up, then headed home.
In this story, the three animals who live with the hen
are a goat, a pig, and a dog.
The Three Billy Goats Gruff
I love how the troll has his own illustration on the side.
Wordless books are my favorites, because they spark far more language than books with words. The pictures inspire a natural dialogue between the reader and the child. One of the best is Jerry Pinkney’s The Lion and the Mouse. It won the Caldecott Medal. Wow!
The Lion and the Mouse
You can understand what both the lion and the mouse are thinking in these illustrations.
Three Little Kittens
Nursery rhymes are often forgotten, or rarely recited in school. They give children more than rhyming. The storyline is lovely to hear, and it always has a message. Jerry Pinkney must have thought about this.
In Pinkney’s way, he can turn a nursery rhyme into a better story. The kittens didn’t loose their mittens, they wore them to wash the dishes.
Perfect!
His many fairy tale picture books include:
The Little Mermaid
Puss in Boots
Little Red Riding Hood
The Grasshopper and the Ants
He is a legend. I highly recommend his books.
Jennie
A Teacher's Reflections 
Truly a beautiful honor, Jennie I remember reading these stories over and over again throughout my early life. Cheers to YOU teachers and librarians who continually inspire the innocence of LOVE! ☕️❤️☕️
Many thanks for your lovely comment! I’m so glad you remember. May I always inspire the innocence of love!
My pleasure. Indeed you always inspire. You teachers have a powerful mission. ❤️☕️❤️🫠
That’s so nice! And yes we do. 💕
Wonderful artwork! And you got to meet him! 🙂
Yes, and yes!!
The illustrations are simply outstanding. Small wonder that you admire Jerry so much.
Best wishes, Pete.
They really are, Pete. He’s high on my list.
Those illustrations are absolutely fantastic!
I agree!
The illustrations are gorgeous, Jennie
They are, Robbie.
Phenomenal artist, I agree!
Very much so!
What a joy, to meet him. Each picture–I thought was the best until I came to the next. I think the Lion, though–that is the winner.
It was wonderful to meet him. That was back in 2017. I know what you mean about the pictures, each seems better than the first. The lion is the clear winner!
Jerry Pinkney is a master creator!
He certainly is!
That was cool meeting him. His watercolor and storytelling are magnificent!
It was very cool to meet him! You are so right about the magnificence of his work.
A great post, Jennie. Thanks for sharing.
Many thanks, John. I’m glad you enjoyed it.
😊
Makes me want to be in pre-school again.
That’s wonderful!
I LOVE how detailed the illustrations are!
I do, too!!
takes me right back to my childhood! ❤
That’s wonderful!
I always loved the three little kittens. I must read his version!
I think you will love it!
So wonderful you got to meet with him, Jennie. The man is indeed a legend, and his illustrations are truly works of art.
i love his fairy tale books and lucky you had the chance to meet –
Those are indeed beutiful illustrations. Certainly a great enhancement to any children’s book.
What a talented guy! I know he illustrated over 100 books in his career. These are the kinds of illustrations which surely grabbed the attention of millions of children.
lovely photos Jennie especially the one of you and Jerry! Your enthusiasm is infectious 🌞💜🌞
Many thanks, Willow! 😍
Jennie, this post is a delight. What superb illustrations — all the beauty combined with whimsy and humor… absolutely splendid. Big hugs.
Hi Jennie, thank you for this wonderful post!