* “The tale of a kid who loves his neighborhood as much as Mr. Rogers loved his. . . . Daniel seems to know nearly everyone in the diverse neighborhood. . . . Readers can appreciate the level of detail Archer includes in her colorful, meticulously composed, collage illustrations. . . . This visually stunning book also embraces nontraditional gender roles, illustrates diversity within families, and advocates for the importance of giving children a level of independence and also welcoming them into the family circle after their adventures. A gorgeous picture book that invites young readers to make their own neighborhoods places where good days abound.”—Kirkus Reviews, starred review
* “Archer shows readers that, with a little prodding by her inquisitive protagonist from Daniel Finds a Poem, the most ordinary of greetings can mean much more than small talk. . . . As Daniel polls his neighbors—“What makes a good day for you?”—he discovers something important and distinctive about each of them. . . . The story comes to a full and reassuring circle. . . . Archer’s oil-and-collage vignettes portray a diverse community in the midst of a lush, blooming spring, and impressive detail makes a flowering garden and a neighborhood newsstand riveting.”—Publishers Weekly, starred review
* “Lovely, intricate artwork invites close inspection as the oil paints and the tissue and patterned paper collages combine to create colorful scenes with minute details. Each illustration . . . appears to be painstakingly composed. . . . Every color in the rainbow is used to create bright, happy pictures that draw the eye closer. The idyllic city neighborhood is a joy to visit with its bakery, newsstand, park, and the warm camaraderie among the folks who live there. A book that begs to be pored over and shared.—School Library Journal, starred review
“Archer’s detailed collage illustrations, with their vivid colors and depth, draw readers into the vibrant scenes. . . . The sense of community is palpable and uplifting; Daniel is an enviably independent and cheerful child; and the portrait of his close-knit brown-skinned family is positive and welcome.”—Horn Book
