Flotsam

by David Wiesner

2007 Caldecott Medal Winner

In nautical terms, the word flotsam refers to a floating accumulation of miscellaneous stuff. Wiesner's picture book Flotsam is the colorful portrayal of a young beachcomber's discovery. He goes to the beach to study the various things the tide brings ashore, but finds more than he could have ever imagined when he finds an old, underwater camera washed up in the sand. Illustrations guide readers through the action as the boy takes the film to be developed, anxiously awaits to see the photos, reacts to the surprising images, contemplates what he has found, and decides to cast the camera back into the ocean so another child can witness the magical life that lives below the surface.

Flotsam encompasses numerous elements characteristic of a great picture book. The story promotes diversity through the portrayal of various races and characters of both genders. The illustrations are highly original and detailed in a way that promotes interactive discussion between readers. In addition, the size and layout of images is perfect for not only individual reading but group storytelling as well. The vivid colors captivate readers, while the thin lines and smooth texture are easy on the eye. 

Even though I marveled at the author's artistic ability, I enjoyed his creativity most of all. Who would have ever imagined a mechanical fish swimming in the sea, aliens on the ocean floor, an octopus reading a book, a blow fish air balloon, underwater cities, or a team of pulling seahorses? Wiesner possess an imagination that readers of all ages will appreciate.