Koshiro Hata – illustratör

● A Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year! ★ "Spreads and text voice the energy and joy of perceiving a storm as a part of the world that’s very much alive." Publishers Weekly, starred review★ "A joyful and refreshing multisensory experience." The Horn Book, starred review● A 2026 USBBY Outstanding International Book● A 2026 ALSC Notable Children's Book● A 2026 Capitol Choices BookA young boy celebrates a refreshing storm in this joyous picture book about experiencing with all your senses a cloudburst of rain on a hot summer day.A boy looks up at the sky and smells the air as the first raindrops hit the ground. He listens as it begins to pour, observing all the symphony of sound this welcome downpour makes.He feels the water droplets on his skin and sees little rivulets of water on the sidewalk. “Badadada”: he hears as the rain hits his yellow umbrella, “Ker-sploosh” as he jumps in a puddle.This boy uses all his senses to experience a refreshing summer storm. Koshiro Hata’s illustrations revel in the joy of nature in Yuko Ohnari’s new book featuring expressive onomatopoeia to sound out and enjoy. You’ll definitely want to play outside the next time it rains.Perfect for units on weather and senses—but also just a sweet and happy picture book to enjoy together.

★ “An irresistible call to romp, stamp, dance, and listen to the sounds of winter.”Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW ★ "A lovely addition to winter storytimes and picture book collections.” School Library Journal, STARRED REVIEW★ "An exuberant, child-centered picture book romp through the joyful sounds—and silence—of a bright snowy day." Shelf Awareness, STARRED REVIEW★ “Hata’s exuberant art captures the thrill of playing in fresh snow alongside Ohnari’s onomatopoeic text” The Bulletin, STARRED REVIEWA quiet snowfall, a listening heart—this tender, sensory journey invites young readers to hear the world in a new way.From the beloved creators of Downpour comes The Voice of the Snow!, a gentle and poetic exploration of a snowy morning through the eyes—and ears—of a young child.With lyrical text by Yuko Ohnari and luminous illustrations by Koshiro Hata, this picture book captures the hushed magic of freshly fallen snow and the joy of noticing small things: the squeak of a boot, the hush of snowflakes, and the quiet reply of nature itself. As the boy listens, the snow listens back.In this moment of mutual attention, children are reminded of the beauty in stillness, the playfulness in sound, and the quiet conversation we can have with the world around us.Perfect for seasonal storytimes, quiet moments, and encouraging mindfulness, The Voice of the Snow! is a timeless celebration of wonder, perception, and connection.