The Smallest Snowflake

by Bernadette Watts

The smallest snowflake longs for a home, and while her snowflake friends journey to far off destinations she finds her place in life, too, as the inspiration for an artist. When Spring finally comes the smallest snowflake knows that she has fulfilled her destiny.

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens, Fiction

32 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2009

Reviews

[Srivalli Hiatus) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a heartwarming picture book about a tiny snowflake that has a different dream than her friends. She only wants to go somewhere warm!

She travels distances to find a home with a flowerbox on a window sill. She sits there, enjoying the warmth inside the house and sharing her happiness with the snowdrops. And when spring arrives, she is the happiest snowflake.

The best parts of the book are the illustrations. These have a fairytale-like feeling with pictures of quaint towns, castles, Eskimos, and a picturesque home with a lovely garden. I love how the color scheme changes from the beginning to the end. The detailing is just as lovely without being too sharp or bold.

I wish the font size was better. It is as tiny as the snowflake (in the electronic version) and leaves a lot of white space.

To sum up, The Smallest Snowflake is a touching book with adorable illustrations. Grab it for the illustrations.

I received an ARC from NetGalley and NorthSouth Books and am voluntarily leaving a review.

#TheSmallestSnowflake #NetGalley

[Marquise · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's a strange story with beautiful artwork, whose moral isn't all that clear and mostly left to the reader's discretion.

It's about a snowflake, the littlest amongst her peers, who has a dream different to them. Whilst the other snowflakes await the Winter wind eagerly to be transported to exciting places such as the top of the tallest mountain or a beautiful forest or an imposing castle, the smallest snowflake dreams of going someplace warm. That's the weird part, you'd think "snowflake's chance in (insert hot place)" exists for a reason, but this snowflake knowingly and deliberately seeks the warmth that will mean its end. What's the lesson here? Follow your dreams even if it costs you your life? Seek the place you belong in even if it's not in your nature? I couldn't rightly say, the moral is ambiguous to my understanding, and I wonder what I'm missing here.

The strength of this picture book is the illustrations, as Bernadette Watts' art shines here. She has done wintery landscapes beautifully, and children and adults will enjoy them far more than the story, which could also be a good conversation starter to tell children about the topics the book seems to be addressing.

I received a free copy for review through NetGalley, thank you.

[Manybooks · Rating 3 out of 5]

So yes indeed, Bernadette Watts' illustrations for her 2009 picture book The Smallest Snowflake are absolutely lovely. Her colourful ink and watercolour pictures are full of visual detail and both the featured animals and people look sweetly, tenderly realistic but at the same time also expressively imaginative (and with Watts' buildings, landscapes and snowscapes for The Smallest Snowflake totally making my eyes light up and smile, not to mention that the warm fireplace image nicely celebrates cozy winter nights inside a comfortable and warm cottage and the snowdrops of course the emergence, the glorious and flowering coming of spring).

But while my rating for Bernadette Watts' artwork for The Smallest Snowflake is certainly and deservedly five shining stars and as such also highly and warmly recommended, no, no, no, Watts' accompanying text with her sentient and talking snowflakes (from large and arrogant to tiny and shy) is totally not at all to my reading taste, feels strangely ridiculous, draggingly tedious and is also kind of making not all that much sense either (and with the gorgeously realistic illustrations not even remotely reflecting what is textually being provided in The Smallest Snowflake and vice versa, and so much and all encompassingly that both my inner child and also my adult reading self would hugely and majorly prefer The Smallest Snowflake to be wordless, because there textually speaking is nothing about the talking and anthropomorphic snowflakes of Bernadette Watts' presented narrative that is in any manner personally desired by and for me, is at best majorly ho-hum and at worst even slightly making me cringe at bit.

And to speak brutally truthfully here, my three star rating for The Smallest Snowflake is of course therefore ONLY, is SOLEY for Watts' absolutely and utterly visually glorious illustrations. For sorry (but actually not sorry), the text, the story that Bernadette Watts provides for The Smallest Snowflake, it totally and simply just does not work for me at all (for both my inner child and equally so for adult me). Furthermore, how at the end of The Smallest Snowflake the smallest snowflake is narrationally shown by Watts as melting with joy and thus also of course dying because the snowdrop it sees and encounters is somehow just too beautiful, yes, said ending is more than a bit creepy and also overly esoteric for a picture book clearly meant for young children (as well as kind of unnecessarily sad).

[Bandita · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is narrated by snowflakes who are talking about where they will travel. The snowflakes are having conversations with one another. It was an unique concept. But my favourite part of this book were the illustrations which were magical. Their were illustrations of winter landscapes with snow falling everywhere. It felt very dreamlike. I really liked this book and I highly recommend it.

[Abigail · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although I wouldn't say that I was easily seduced by glitter, I'm afraid that I'm not as indifferent as I sometimes feel I should be, either. So it is that, passing my public library's "Winter" display this past weekend, and spying this new (relatively speaking) Bernadette Watts picture-book, with its sparkly cover, I was tempted. Recognizing her name, from the various adaptations of Hans Christian Andersen's fairy-tales that she has illustrated - some of which I enjoyed, and some of which I did not - I decided to take a chance on The Smallest Snowflake. What I discovered was a mixed bag, with a rather flat, mediocre narrative, but artwork that I found sweetly appealing.

The story of a little snowflake who wishes that she, like some of the other snowflakes being driven before the wind, had an idea of where to settle, this is a rather sentimental book, one that can't decide whether it wants to be a meditation about the importance of finding one's rightful place in the world, or a reflection on the passing of the seasons, and the impermanence of all things. Whatever the case may be, I was mostly indifferent to the text, and derived my enjoyment primarily from the illustrations, which had real charm, and ably captured the beauty of various wintry landscapes. Still, given my feelings about the story itself, this is one I would recommend primarily to fans of Bernadette Watts' artwork.

[Reading_ Tamishly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you, North South Books Inc, for the advance reading copy.

I am so mesmerized by the magical illustrations! The book is so beautiful inside out.

I love the beautiful concept of the story as well. It gives a strong idea about each of us being unique and beautiful in our own way.

Beautiful indeed.

[Kathryn · Rating 4 out of 5]

My friend Lisa Vegan made me chuckle and nod when I read her review, "This is sort of a weird book. It’s about a sentient snowflake who decides where she wants to fall, and then welcomes her own 'death' because the start of spring is so lovely." It certainly was a bit of an odd conclusion to the story; in a way, it's a lovely idea and could perhaps be helpful for children dealing with loss. But, really, the book didn't seem to be about that for most of the time--it is more about belonging, following your heart and finding the place that you "fit." So, the ending just felt a bit odd compared to the rest of the story. That said, the story was told pleasantly enough and I really loved the illustrations. So, three stars for story and five for illustrations = four stars here.

[Lisa Vegan · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is sort of a weird book. It’s about a sentient snowflake who decides where she wants to fall, and then welcomes her own “death” because the start of spring is so lovely.

Now, I think that the paintings are lovely, and the reader will learn a tiny amount about places with ice and snow, and about winter and spring weather, if they’re not too young and they believe in all those sentient snowflakes, that is.

I liked the paintings much better than the story, but maybe I shouldn’t have taken it all so literally: maybe it’s an allegory regarding winter and winter turning to spring.

I must have found this book because of Abigail, and I basically agree with what she has to say about the book: (http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/... she said it better than I did.

[Mel (Epic Reading) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bernadette Watts is a famous children’s story teller and illustrator. She has done some of the best renditions of well known tales like the Snow Queen. The Smallest Snowflake is a bit of an oddity for her. Not only does it appear to be a completely original story (not a fairy tale, fable, or know oration); but it has no real morale or ending to make a point. In fact it’s important to know this children’s story ends with the littlest snowflake melting away in spring. An ambivalent eventuality that I find odd given that children may not quite grasp the idea that the snowflake becomes water vapour, returns to the air/clouds and is reborn again as precipitation.

While the illustrations are in line with Watts gorgeous detailed style, and the story hits internationally featuring English castles, the Kremlin in Russia, and Inuit in Canada; it seems to be about nothing really with no direction or teaching. Not to say a kids storybook must have a moral but it is generally the understood purpose of a young children’s upbringing. Thus I have to give this one only 4 stars as I didn’t quite get it. This children’s illustrated storybook is good enough but misses out on being something wondrous as there doesn’t appear to be much to learn from it.

Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.

[Khai · Rating 5 out of 5]

A new favorite! The art in this book is full of magic - of the seasons, of home, of beautiful places, of transformation. And the story is beautiful and soft, magical in its own way as we follow the journey of the Smallest Snowflake as she searches for a special place all her own to land.

[What April's Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sweet book with beautiful pictures.

[Storywraps · Rating 5 out of 5]

The smallest snowflake dreams for a special home that fits her perfectly... some place warm. Her snowflake peers have grandiose dreams of destinations far away and exotic while she desires a destination where her heart will lead her. She drifts with the wind on a journey over Europe and the icy cold Arctic finally landing in a simple window box of a little Welsh cottage. The jacket flap reveals it is one of the artist's former residence.

She patiently waits until spring arrives. Day by day the green shoots push up in the window box as the sun gets warmer and warmer. Little snowflake sees buds appear as white as pearls on many flowers. They are beautiful snowdrops the first sign of spring.

Spring enables apple trees and blackthorn bushes to be covered with fragrant beautiful blossoms. Primroses and violets poke up their colourful heads also.

Most of the snowflakes on the window ledge melt away and little snowflake looks up at the tallest snowdrop and her heart fills with love. Her love fills her heart with such warmth that she melts away with joy. Finally, her dream has been fulfilled!

The delicate watercolour illustrations are gorgeous and the story is gentle and charming. This tender story is sure to tug at heartstrings and I highly recommend it.

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and North South Books for the opportunity to read an advanced reader's copy of this children’s book for an honest review. (Publish Date: September 13, 2022)

“The Smallest Snowflake” by Bernadette Watts is like a warm, soft blanket on a chilly day. The illustrations are so beautifully calming and soothing. It’s the perfect bedtime or rest time story to read aloud to children.

My 8-year-old daughter and I were intrigued that this book explains how most snowflakes have big dreams and love to travel. The smallest snowflake is unique from the rest, because unlike the others she just wants to be warm.

To be honest, I was a little confused by the ending of this book. I don’t want to give the ending away, but I felt like something was missing – or perhaps I had missed something between the lines of this seemingly simple tale.

Overall, I would recommend this children’s book since the illustrations were a delight and the story was perfect for bedtime.

[Joey Susan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you so much to NorthSouth Books and Netgalley for the Ebook to read and review.

A magical tale of snowflakes as the venture out in flutters to their dream location where they will rest all winter, and one small snowflake that wanted to be different.

This was a really cute story each snowflake was so unique, different and dreamt of travelling somewhere completely different. Sharing their dreams with each other and smallest snowflake was adorable wanting to explore something they aren’t usually supposed to.

The illustrations were so beautiful throughout this book and it felt like you were there in the winter weather and the snowfall, exploring the world each snowflake at a time. The writing within the pages were so detailed and described in such a perfect way.

This would be a perfect book during winter time, to sit and read with your young children, it’s so magical and sweet.

[Jessica Gard · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've really enjoyed Bernadette Watts' previous works, and The Smallest Snowflake is no exception.

The story about a small snowflake who dreams of taking a different path from her peers, The Smallest Snowflake has the feel of an older fable. While most of her fellow snowflakes dream of fantastical adventures in far out places, the smallest snowflake simply wants to find somewhere warm to rest. The writing itself is beautiful, although the story could be taken in many different ways.

As always, Watts and her artistic style and color palette continue to rank very high on my list of favorite illustrators.

Thank you to Netgalley and North South Books for the opportunity to read and review this advanced copy.

[Zinzee Noel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Waw! What a mesmerizing book. In this endearing picture book, a small snowflake who dreams of something different from her pals. She merely wants to travel to a warm location!

She goes a long way to find a house with a flowerbox on the window ledge. She relaxes in the warmth of the home while chatting with the snowdrops while she does so. She is also the happiest snowflake when spring finally arrives.

The graphics are the highlights of the book. With images of charming villages, castles, Eskimos, and a stunning home with a lovely garden, these have a fairytale-like atmosphere. I really like how the color palette varies from beginning to end. The details are equally nice without being overly angular or bold.

[Melki · Rating 4 out of 5]

As the snowflakes leave the sky, they make plans for where they'd like to land. Some have lofty ideas, others just want to see the world. And, one little snowflake just yearns to be warm.

It was fun to imagine snowflakes with personalities, dreams, and desires. The author's lovely artwork has a dreamy, European feel to it.



This is a sort of melancholy read that would be perfect for one of those winter evenings by the fire.

Thanks to NetGalley and NorthSouth Books for the lovely read.

[Pam · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an electronic ARC from NorthSouth Books.
Readers see snowflakes gather to float to earth. Several try to outdo each other by sharing where they are headed - mountains, forests, castles. The littles snowflake doesn't know where they are going but know they want it to be someplace warm. The snowflake travels until it comes to a small cottage and settles in the window box. From there, the inside is visible. the snowflake settles there until spring.
Sweet story and soft colored illustrations capture this journey.

[Melanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an eARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book will be published in September 2022.

Although I really loved this and would have liked to have given it 5 stars, the truth is this book is not for every child, heck is not for most children. It is quiet and almost melancholy in nature. It's a contemplative piece about nature. It fact that our protagonist is a snowflake that longs for warmth is a creative turn that will delight some kids but the ending is almost bleak in that context. I loved the ethereal quality to the illustrations.

[Psusan · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Smallest Snowflake by Bernadette Watts is a beautiful story of a small snowflake discovering its purpose while fulfilling its dream. The charming artwork is the most powerful part of this book. As often times I read this book with a granddaughter. It was not too difficult to read at her second grade age. However, the ending seemed to go over her head. I thought the snowdrops were a wonderful touch to the lovely story.

The publisher through Net Galley provided a digital ARC. I have voluntarily decided to read and review, giving my personal opinions and thoughts.

[Leslie · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Smallest Snowflake by Bernadette Watts is a sweet book. The Smallest Snowflake tells the story of a Snowflake’s journey. While most Snowflakes want to fly somewhere cold for the Winter, the Smallest Snowflake wants to go somewhere warm. This is that story. The Smallest Snowflake is a beautifully illustrated book and it would be a perfect book to read when elementary students learn about winter. Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read this book. My review is also on Goodreads.

[SonataReader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magical and a heartwarming story about snowflakes.

This is just gorgeous and truly enchanting. The illustrations are gorgeously done-a book that must definitely be shared to readers out there; it would make them sigh and dream in delight for sure. I vowed to have my very own copy and I can't believe that it escaped my radar! Picture books with enchanting tales are so me!

Thank you so much to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Mandoreader · Rating 3 out of 5]

It says something that I can read a book in the heat of the summer and feel like I'm in the depths of winter. Certainly the strongest aspect of Watts' book is the artwork, deserving of at least one more star. There is something open and calm and cold and beautiful in all of them. The text is poetic, mostly in a good way, but it does bog down a little. And yet it manages to surprise, too. I would definitely put this in the pile of books to read to a child on a quiet winter afternoon.

[SBC · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a very prettily illustrated book about snowflakes, which takes us on a journey around the snowy parts of the world, as many snowflakes travel together to find the place they want to be. It starts by a glacial lake , moves to Mt Fuji, to North America, to Russia, to the Arctic. The littlest snowflake dreams of being warm and settles on a windowsill outside an artist's cottage where it befriends a snowdrop and melts with joy at spring.

[Christine Turner]

All the older snowflakes seemed to know exactly where they were going - to a beautiful mountain, to a great forest, to a sparkling palace. The Smallest Snowflake listened in awe to all their grand plans and longed for a special place of her own. But where could that special place be? This magical story of a snowflake's search for the perfect place for her will enchant readers of all ages

[Cheryl · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pictures sweet. Story premise rather silly, and doesn't work in the end. However, I'm rounding up to three stars because there's something there that would really have appealed to young me... I'm not sure what, but I'm hearing her telling me so, somehow. Maybe because it's not about how special the smallest snowflake is, but the quieter theme of just being happy with simple things.

[Joni Owens · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a sweet story. We are from the South so it was cool (ha ha) to read a book about a big snowfall. The story is quick so perfect for bedtime. The illustrations were just gorgeous and added so much to the story.

[Shawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great story and the illustration was gorgeous. It was a little lengthy to hold my 3.5 year olds attention but it is getting added to our list of seasonal books for next year and we will try again!

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful Illustrations and a sweet story about finding home.

[fruitcake · Rating 3 out of 5]

The snowflake watches all her friends settle in grand places and wants to do the same. She then ends up picking a fairly common spot and (spoiler) melting. So that was odd. Nice artwork, though.