While it is true that an artist’s worldview will almost always show up in his art, this serious side of art can be examined later. Meanwhile introduce a young child to the world’s most notable artists with a sense of humor. And let them just appreciate the work.
Art appreciation is what these books are good for. They may be little, but they each display about 20 full-color famous pieces—enough to really get a good feel for each artist’s distinguishable style. The print is large and the text easy to read yet pertinent. What make these books approachable are their whimsical cartoons depicting the comic side of each artist’s idiosyncrasies. All my children took an interest in reading these funny, informative books during their leisure. In my memory I picture them sprawled out on the rug with one of these books open before them, riveted, while I cooked supper. I recall a few docile nudes (Michelangelo, I’m sure of), but these were not an issue with our family. For ages 7 to 10. 32 pages each, softcovers from Children’s Press.
—Karen
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