Weather in West Texas might be unpredictable, but on Dec. 2 at the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature, it’s guaranteed to be a “Snowy Day at the NCCIL.” The children’s pictured book museum is hosting its second annual Snowy Day at the NCCIL, inspired by Ezra Jack Keats’ picture book “The Snowy Day” and sponsored by the Ezra Jack Keats Foundation. … [Read more...]
Raúl Colón Returns to NCCIL with New Exhibit
Step into a world where imagination knows no bounds as the National Center for Children's Illustrated Literature (NCCIL) proudly presents the vibrant art of Raúl Colón this fall. Born in New York City in 1952, Colón later moved with his parents to Caguas, Puerto Rico, where he studied commercial art. In 1978, he made his way back to the mainland United States when he moved … [Read more...]
NCCIL Volunteers Play Crucial Role at Museum
Anna McKay was a volunteer at the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature before stepping into a full-time role as education director in 2022. She understands the value and hard work that the museum’s group of 12 amazing ladies who volunteer bring to the table. "Our volunteers are vital to our school tour programming!” McKay said. “Because of the time, … [Read more...]
Westman Shares 25 Years Behind Lens Documenting Museum
What does 25 years of history, literacy, and creativity look like from behind the lens of a video camera? Rob Westman, known for documenting all of Abilene’s greatest moments, can tell you just that. The last 25 years of the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature have been documented and preserved by Westman’s talents. In February 2022, the NCCIL celebrated … [Read more...]
Making “Wolf in the Snow”
A girl is caught in a snowstorm. So is a wolf pup. A nearly wordless story of friendship and trust unfolds through the illustrations of Matthew Cordell in “Wolf in the Snow,” winner of the American Library Association’s 2018 Caldecott Medal for most distinguished American picture book for children. The book is one of more than 50 that Cordell has illustrated over his career, … [Read more...]