The classic and beloved song is brought to life with bright and colorful illustrations by Tim Hopgood. First recorded in 1967 by Louis Armstrong, and with sales of over one million copies, "What a Wonderful World" has become a poignant message of hope for people everywhere. Sweet and positive in its message, with bright, beautiful art, this book is sure to be a hit. Perfect for sharing! PreS-Gr 2—As a tribute to a favorite song, made famous by Louis Armstrong, Hopgood has illustrated the lyrics in a candy-colored retro fashion reminiscent of the It's a Small World ride at Disneyland. Unlike Ashley Bryan's version, with its emphasis on multicultural community, this book features a lone, olive-skinned boy who bonds with nature. A blue bird accompanies him on his adventures among friendly animals, lovely landscapes, and just a few children of varying skin tones. Although a recording is not included, the pacing of page turns will work well when paired with Armstrong's singing. The large trim size evokes the generosity of spirit of the song itself. A solid addition to most collections.—Heidi Estrin, Congregation B'nai Israel, Boca Raton, FL “Hopgood interprets this beloved ballad, written by Thiele and Weiss and made famous by Louis Armstrong. His colorful mixed-media collages present a hopeful world, filled with summery trees, sunny blue skies, and pastoral scenes from around the globe. . . . an upbeat story hour selection.” ― Booklist “With a satisfying night-to-day-to-night cycle, the book not only reinforces the concepts of colors but also provides a sense of security of the way things are supposed to be in the world. The repeated refrain of 'Wow!' throughout the book will elicit a chorus among young listeners at storytime.” ― Booklist on Wow! Said the Owl “Straightforward and flowing, this title makes a satisfying introduction to the colors of the day.” ― School Library Journal on Wow! Said the Owl “This sweet, wonder-filled picture book will make a good addition to toddler storytime and a perfect bedtime read, too.” ― The Horn Book on Wow! Said the Owl Bob Thiele (1922-1996) was a record producer and jazz radio host who worked with legendary artists such as Charles Mingus, Dizzy Gillespie, and B.B. King. His most successful song was Louis Armstrong's "What a Wonderful World." George David Weiss (1921-2010) was a highly prolific songwriter and arranger and film score composer. He wrote or rewrote lyrics to such classic songs as "Lullaby of Birdland" (Ella Fitzgerald), "Can't Help Falling in Love" (Elvis Presley), "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" (The Tokens), and "What a Wonderful World" (Louis Armstrong). In 1984, Weiss was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Tim Hopgood is the illustrator of What a Wonderful World , Moon River , Singing in the Rain , Walking in a Winter Wonderland, and many other popular picture books. He lives with his family in North Yorkshire, England.