Smoky Night

In this Caldecott Medal-winning modern classic, a young boy and his mother witness the Los Angeles riots from the safety of shelter after being forced to leave their apartment.

Winner of the 1995 Caldecott Medal.

During the Los Angeles riots, Daniel and his mother witness the night's events unfold from the safety of shelter after they are forced to leave their apartment. “Diaz has not been afraid to take risks in illustrating the story with thickly textured paintings against a background of torn-paper and found-object collage. Without becoming cluttered or gimmicky, these pictures manage to capture a calamitous atmosphere that finally calms. . . . Both author and artist have managed to portray a politically charged event without pretense or preaching.”--The Bulletin |

"Monumental.”—The New York Times Book Review

"Visually exciting.”—Publishers Weekly

"A memorable, thought-provoking book.”—The Horn Book

"Outstandingly handsome...an excellent vehicle for discussion.”—Kirkus Reviews

"[A] powerful story.”—School Library Journal

"A remarkable book.”—The Hungry Mind Review

"Bunting takes a serious subject...and makes it understandable for children.”—Instructor