Reviews (3)

Fun for all ages!
This is a fun book for toddlers and up! Ed Emberley provides lots of ideas / directions for making flowers, insects, animals, borders etc. using only circles! To make it easier, we bought some circle punches in a variety of sizes. Add some paper and glue and you're set to make all sorts of pretty things! My 4 and 6 yr olds both love it. We also own Picture Pie 2, but find this is the easier book to use just because we can use punches instead of tracing and cutting. Lots of fun!

So simple, yet...
I bought this rather because I'm a bit of a completist: I have almost all of Emberly's other drawing books, and I really didn't see how something that seemed this simple could be of much interest.

As it turns out, it's amazing. It's not exactly a drawing book but more a book on how to assemble shapes into pictures. These are shapes you would cut out from colored paper. What that means is that even a =very= young child could use shapes that you cut out to assemble the pictures shown here. Older kids can cut out there own shapes, though you'll probably still need to give them the starting circles (pies) until they're confident.

This book is the most colorful of the collection, which itself adds some interest and excitement to the shapes. And because the shapes are simple, the designs could be used in a variety of other crafts. (Quilting, in particular strikes me as a likely candidate.)

I got Picture Pie 2 as well and it may be a better choice for those focussing on drawing skills: it comes with a stencil and is meant more for drawing.

Ed Emberley's Picture Pie: A Circle Drawing Book
My son had received this book as a gift when he was five and because his interest and draw developement I bought all the others Ed Emberley's books. Now, I need to buy the first one again because my younger daughter found the Circle Drawing Book and it is a little bit old ( too many trips to school and neighbours houses). My son still like to draw with Ed Emberley's books but this one has a special place on his heart. With this special book, he realized he can draw and now he is the best at school and at home too. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

a sweet, & educational tour of the masters of impressionism
For her birthday, Katie's grandmother takes her to the museum to see the impressionist paintings. At first, Katie thinks they look like dots, but her grandmother tells her to stand further back to see the flowers and the people. Katie has a rich imagination. She steps back and not only can she see the flowers, she can smell them. She closes her eyes and she finds herself within the painting itself, interacting with Jean Monet, son of Claude Monet, who is one of the subjects in the painting.

Katie picks flowers for her grandmother and enters one painting after another, meeting different artists and interacting with the various subjects. She is chased by bees that follow her into the museum, but her overall experience is one of adventure.

Katie and her grandmother are whimsical impressionistic drawings themselves, and in the museum are photos of the actual works of Monet, Renoir and Degas.

The book also tells readers the names and dates of the paintings and in what museums they are seen today.

This is not only a great book to introduce children into art, but also a great exercise for the imagination - picturing yourself escaping into a painting and meeting new people. It is a great book for parents to read to their kids or for children to read on their own.

Meet the Impressionists.....
It's Grandma's birthday and she's taken Katie to one of her favorite places, the art museum. As Katie looks at The Luncheon by Monet, it looks so real and inviting that she thinks she can actually smell the flowers. A bouquet would be nice for Grandma and so she steps over the frame into the picture..... James Mayhew has written a wonderfully imaginative story that will introduce youngsters to the impressionists. As Katie moves from picture to picture, meeting Renoir's Girl with a Watering Can, playing with Monet's son Jean in Field of Poppies and dancing with the ballerinas in The Blue Dancers, children will explore the beauty and magic of these and other paintings. His simple, gentle text is combined with creative, detailed illustrations that transport kids, along with Katie, right into the pictures. With an afterword about the artists and their pictures to expand lessons and discussions, it won't be long before you're taking a trip to the museum!

Katie Meets the Impressionists
We discovered this book at the D'Orsay Museum and our son immediately loved it. We also found that it was a wonderful tool to draw in a child such as our nephew that has learning difficulties & an attention deficit. Both children enjoyed the artwork and discussing museum etiquette. We were so impressed with this book that we purchased the other two in the series at the Lourve!

I want it!
I found this book at the Museum Shop in the Louvre. I stood there, flipping through the pages, laughing at the text and admiring the illustrations. I said I was buying it for my children but I really wanted it for myself.

Katie Meets the Impressionists is a fun story with beautiful illustrations, a great way to teach children about Monet!

A Beautiful Journey into the French Countryside and Cities
Young children will love the bright pictures of France in the 1800's as they journey with Katie. A wonderful way to teach little ones about the art of the Impressionists. The book is also a great way to teach a preschooler about historical customs and manners. The author has a unique artistic gift which he is able to share with children. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

A good way to go...
It's an ok book. The drawings are a bit hard but if you just try, the results are great!

drawing horses book
This is a nice book, but
it does not give very
good instructions.

uh... okay i guess
This book was a little too brief. It showed good drawings of horses but it didn't break down the steps of drawing one like a good drawing book would. The materials they give you are great though. Hope you enjoy it.

O.K.
This book was not the best for me it made me want to draw but there was a problem it showed me but it just showed circles. I would recommened this book to people who have alot of calmness.

perfect
Great for any young horse lover, simple visual guide to drawing horses. My 10 year old was able to begin immediately just by following the illustrations. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

charming introduction into art for youngsters
This book serves more than one purpose. It is a short, but entertaining read for a child or for a parent to read to their children. The story is about Marie, a young girl in France who is loved by her poor, but hard-working parents. They work long hours to save money to send her to ballet school - as it is her dream to become the world's most famous ballerina.

When her father becomes ill and can no longer afford to pay for her classes, the famous artist Edgar Degas offers to pay her for modeling for him. He is mean, short-tempered and impatient with Marie, making her hold poses for hours until her neck aches.

One night, however, she finds out just a little of what is under the surface of Degas' rough exterior and feels sorry for him, giving him her long hair ribbon.

Even her modeling pay cannot sustain the cost of her classes, so she must give up her dream. Later, she and her parents receive an invitation to a gallery showing of Degas' work - the center piece is the only sculpture of his ever displayed during his lifetime - it is of Marie - and unlike other statues, hers is wearing a tutu and the beautiful hair ribbon she gave him.

The story is not only entertaining, but it tells children that while some people may act mean or rude, it may be because they are hurting on the inside - and extending friendship to someone who behaves in such a manner can truly make a difference in their life and in yours.

The story is peppered with illustrations of Marie and her family, as well as photos of Degas' paintings and of course, his famous sculpture. Information about the names of the paintings and the museums where they are displayed is also cited at the end of the book.

This doesn't have to be just a book for girls - even young boys will see a universal truth - we can always have dreams and even though they may not come true the way we envisioned them, we never know what wonderful surprises are around the corner.

Charming little book with lovely illustrations
This is the story of Marie van Goethen, a young dancer at the Paris Opera Ballet School who posed for Edgar Degas (1824-1917). He created the sculpture, "The Little Dancer" based on Marie's likeness. This was the only Degas sculpture to be exhibited during his lifetime. This charming figure was wearing a tutu and a wig.
The illustrations in this children's book are beautiful and even some of Degas' own paintings are included. I wish that more of Degas' life had been included in this story. I also feel that this book would have been perfect if more of his paintings were displayed with descriptions of each work of art.
This book is a good introduction to Degas and should be targeted towards lower elementary students.

A moving story
This is not only a book for children, but also a moving tale illustrating the life of Degas. It is enough to bring tears to the eyes of any lover of Degas art.

This book connects real life with art
This is a wonderful book that helps children (and adults) see the reality that lies behind art. My daughter was first introduced to this book at the age of 8. Now she notices the "Little Dancer" every time she sees it. Knowing the background of both Degas and his young dancer has made the art itself more interesting.

Fabulous integrated arts book!
This book teaches not only about the famous French impressionist Degas, but also would be enjoyed by any child who loves dance. It documents the true story of Degas' dancer paintings as well as one little girl's love for ballet. It's equally inspirational and educational. Perfect for the classroom or the home! ... Read more

Book Description

This is no ordinary coloring book! With playful drawings, funny scenarios and fun-to-follow instructions, this book is not just for coloring, but for doodling, drawing, imagining and thinking! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A sheer delight!
I bumped into this book in an airport in Minneapolis. My grandaughter did not budge from it for three days when I gave it to her. I am jealous I didn't think of it. It is a wonderful creative expression gift!

Endless Creative FUN
My daughter just received this from her grandmother over the weekend. It has never left our kitchen table. Any free minute Taylor gets, she sits down and draws in this book. It is a creative coloring book that allows children to use their own creativity and thinking. Endless hours of fun and great for any road trip. I am going to buy several for birthday presents which are great with a nice set of thin magic markers!

imaginative fun for all ages
What a great find this book is! Scribbles is full of many zany ideas to get kids imaginations flying. Gomi's simple artistic style is appealing to kids and adults alike. Pages have simple instructions that will guide kids without them feeling hemmed in. Gomi often has several pages in a row with the same simple illustrations but with different leaders: a quaint town drawn at the bottom of several pages has the headings: "Its a beautiful day today: draw a bright sunny sky," Today it is not so nice: Draw a dark cloudy sky," and "Today there's a thunderstorm: draw lighting and rain." Or a simple stick drawn on several pages and children being asked to draw a dragonfly sitting on one, a sparrow on another, a crocodile balancing on another and finally an elephant! Kids will love the crazy ideas. There are also masks, mazes, time- telling exercises etc. I prefer the thin line drawings to the thicker more abstract ones but there sheer abundance of ideas makes up for the few that fall short of perfect. A great score for the classroom or the craft table! ... Read more

Book Description

I want a pony. I want a pony more than anything in the world. At the heart of Susan Jeffers's exquisite picture book lies the idea that in her imagination, a child can journey anywhere and do anything-even fly through the stars on her very own pony. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Perfect Book For Horse Lovers Of All Ages
Beautiful illustrations and nice story too. Little girl in
story longs for a horse. Gets one in her dreams. Author's
own childhood desire for a horse was the inspiration for
her artistic talent at drawing horses. She states that she
now owns horses and tries to ride every day. Inspiring
message for horse lovers. Never give up on dreams!

Delightful, One I don't mind reading every night
My Pony/horse obsessed 3 yr-old daughter received this on Christmas eve from her Aunt and just loves it. It is one of those books that is just mesmerizing to her. It has also been helpful in showing her that she can have "her pony" in her imagination as well. It is really a sweet tale that has already been described in detail so I will simply leave it at that.

A wonderful book for horse lovers, young and old alike
My Pony is a wonderfully enchanting story of a young girl's dream of having her own pony. Each night when the young girl is supposed to be doing her homework, she dreams of riding her pony. The pony, Silver, comes to life when the young girl draws the beautiful dapples and shiny coat. Together at last, the girl and Silver ride the clouds and visit a fantasy world.
Susan Jeffers' latest story is beautifully illustrated and eloquently narrated. The words of the story combined with awesome illustrations seem to drip like honey off of the pages of this book. Jeffers' has done a spectacular job. This book is filled with whimsical fantasy allowing the reader to escape to a world filled with beauty and wonder.
This book is told from the young girl's point of view and the reader will quickly become lost in the story. Even though this book is keyed to young girls, 'old girls' are sure to revel in it as well. This book would be highly recommended and considered a valuable addition to any children's library. The breathtaking illustrations, done in fine line pen and watercolor, make a significant contribution to be viewed as an example of art for children. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Fun with Faces
I love all of Emerbeley's books but this one was a particular favorite of mine. It goes into how to draw all sorts of faces from regular people to clowns, movie monsters, and animals.

Another classic!
If your child likes to draw, you can't beat Ed Emberley for his fun, creative, and best of all EASY drawing instructions. He provides simple, step-by-step pictorial guidelines which even young children can follow: if they can recognize and reproduce basic shapes, then they can draw the faces in this book. For each step of a particular drawing, there is a basic instruction such as "make a green triangle" or "add two squiggly lines." These instructions are accompanied by two sketches: a drawing of whatever it is to be added and a drawing of the face-in-progress as a whole, so children can easily see how the parts fit together. Not only does this book provide a fun play activity, but also it's great for helping school-aged kids to enhance book reports and other school projects. Even adults will appreciate both the ease at which this book helps them to produce a wide variety of silly faces and the author's humorous style. A great gift for pre-school and elementary school aged children.

WONDERFUL AND FUN!
Even tho these books are rated for ages 4-8 i think that is really a judgement call... My son is 10 and LOVES them. There is no set age for when a child learns to draw and anytime you can make a child feel good about something he creates... it is a good thing. I have found that even adults who didnt think they could draw are amazed at what they can do using the books... this is one of the easier drawing books but it is also fun because as kids get more comfortable they can use their imagination and make up their own faces!

Watch your children learn to draw!
The Ed Emberley series of books are excellent for teaching that drawing things can be easy when you look for the basic shapes that appear in the subject you are drawing. I use this book together with my preschoolers and my 7 year old, and their drawing abilities have noticably advanced. The pictures are rather small for the preschoolers to use on their own, but when we do it together they love it.

Great drawing book for kids!
My kids age 8 and 10 loved all the tricks for drawing fun little characters. Very easy tips!! ... Read more

Book Description

The foundation to drawing a character is the penciled under-drawing. An under-drawing that has somehow gone astray, once penned, ultimately results in artwork that just will not pull together or lacks balance. This volume explains in thorough detail how to handle the pencil, before the pen ever touches the drawing. Using actual examples of how a well or poorly penciled under-drawing can affect the final work, this book passes along many helpful pointers. Use this book to learn the absolute basics of penciled artwork, manga-style! ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (15)

A wonderful introduction to Monet!
Linnea is a little girl who travels with her neighbor to Paris to see Monet's paintings. Delighted by what she sees, Linnea goes with her neighbor to Giverny to see Monet's wonderful home and gardens. This delightful book has the animated Linnea prancing along in the grounds at Giverny, which are presented in photographs. She learns and explains everything she sees; her sparkling "personality" makes Monet and his art come alive for young readers. Linnea is a joy! She can be purchased as a doll as well.

A child's exciting trip to visit the world and art of Monet
I have read several book recently that explain the impressionist art work of Claude Monet, and "Linnea in Monet's Garden" is certainly one of the most creative and interesting of the bunch. Originally published in Swedish as "Linnea i malarens tradgard," this exquisite little book tells of the adventure of young Linnea to Claude Monet's garden, where she gets to stand on the Japanese bridge overlooking the lily pond that Monet often painted. Linnea also gets to visit many of Monet's actual paintings in Paris, accompanied by her friend Mr. Bloom, a retired gardner who knows a lot about the life and art of Monet. The story of "Linnea in Monet's Garden" is told by Christina Bjork, with drawings by Lena Anderson. The book also includes both black & white photographs of Monet and his family, but color shots taken by "Linnea" on her trip or Monet's home and paintings.

The other books I have read this week about the art of Monet have focused more specifically on explaining his art in terms of subject, color, perpsective, tone, etc. "Linnea in Monet's Garden" covers these topics in a more offhanded way. This hardly matters because the strength of the book is in how in capture's the young girl's joy in actually going to the places she has read about and getting to sit in Monet's kitchen, walk on the Japanese bridge, and take photographs of the water lillies in his pond. There is also the fun of getting to see the actual paintings that she has only seen in books. This story is told as if it were a true adventure (they have to be allowed into the Water Lily Rooms at the museum because they are under repairs and Lineea bursts into tears when they discover the rooms are closed to the public). If you have ever had the pleasure of a finally seeing a great painting in person (for me it was Seurat's "A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte" in Chicago) or visiting famous places you have read about for years (pick your own example), then this charming book will speak to you.

B e a u t i f u l
Linnea, a young Swedish girl has developed quite a friendship with the elderly Mr. Bloom, her upstairs neighbor. Mr. Bloom is a retired gardener who is the proud owner of a lovely book about the great French artist, Claude Monet. After hours and hours of studying Monet and his life, the pair begin the ultimate adventure: a trip to Paris, and where it all began! Linnea and Mr. Bloom visit the Marmottan museum to observe the many paintings of Monet. They study his artwork and how the genius painted. They learn about other Impressionist artists--many who were great friends of Monet. Eventually the young child and elderly gentleman make the ultimate trek to Giverny, where Monet lived and painted.
This book could almost be a 'fun' textbook. The artwork, both of the author's and of Monet's is absolutely exquisite. Becoming familiar with Monet's life and his paintings become a marvelous art history lesson. As an adult, I not enjoyed reading this lovely book but I learned a lot. In fact, a few days after reading LINNEA in Monet's Garden I was watching a Sex in the City episode where Charlotte was showing a group of people one of Monet's 'lily' murals. Being familiar with that painting because of this book was an exciting moment for me!

Impossible to resist
I picked this up at the home of a friend. Her little girl scampered over and, eyeing me with suspicion, said, "That's MY BOOK." Once she gave me permission to look at it if I promised to treat it carefully, I began to wish I really could steal it!
What a treasure. Linnea in Monet's Garden is a way to introduce children (about age 6-10, I'd say) to the appreciation of Impressionist art. The book includes photographs and drawings of Monet's home and family, a story of his life, and full-color reproductions of many of his paintings. Linnea is taken to Giverny by the elderly Mr. Bloom and, as she is entranced by all things Monet, so will you be, too.
Buy two copies: one for yourself and one for a young friend.

Wonderful to share with children
An enchanting introduction to one of the world's favourite artists. The journey undertaken by Linnea can easily be retraced when visiting France.

It is a great way to introduce children to Impressionism, this particular artist, and ready them for visiting a gallery.

Thoroughly recommended. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Children who have been captivated by the bold, colorful paintings ofJacob Lawrence (1917- ) in the context of African American history lessons now have a chance to learn the full life story of this unique, dedicated artist. Though it's hard for any text to stand on equal footing with artwork this imaginative and strong (25 full-color reproductions from Lawrence's Migration series, Toussaint L'Ouverture series, and more, are included here), John Duggleby has crafted the tale of Lawrence's life into a satisfyingly rich, and quick-moving biography.

As much a history of cultural life in 1930s Harlem as it is the story of Lawrence's upbringing, Story Painter also includes all the details necessary to make Lawrence's personal artistic life spring to life. Wesee him start experimenting with tempera paints at an after-school program at the same time as he's running off to hear special black history lectures at the Harlem libraries. The dedication to his craft was obvious at a very young age, earning him support from prominent black artists such as Augusta Savage and winning him great working gigs such as the Easel Project, which paid him $23.86 per week for two paintings every six weeks. Museums and gallery owners courted him as soon as he showed his work publicly; by age 30, he was considered America's foremost black artist. A few years later this dizzying ascent took its toll, and Lawrence spent a nine-month stint in a hospital for depression. He soon righted himself, eventually moving to Seattle to become a distinguished art professor and mentor.

Exquisitely designed, Story Painter: The Life of Jacob Lawrence builds a relationship between the full-page illustrations and their concurring partnered text that makes this book a visual splendor. The strongest color in a painting, for example, may show up as the background color for the accompanying words, or may be used to make a sidebar snippet of African American poetry pop off the page. The handful of evocativeblack-and-white photographs of Lawrence feature beautifully drawn borders and are set against rich backgrounds of color. This level of design sophistication and care is reverential to Lawrence and a great reward for all readers who care about art and its pursuit. (Ages 9 to 12) --Jean Lenihan ... Read more

Reviews (1)

a good book about an important artist
This book not only offers a well-written, informative overview of Jacob Lawrence's life but also offers snapshots of historical events that were part of his times and of his people's past, which he recounted in his powerful paintings. The book uses Lawrence's art beautifully, showcasing its brilliance while also using it to help tell the often-compelling story of the artist's life; excellent opening quotes in each chapter (from various cultural figures throughout Lawrence's lifetime) also subtly enhance the meaning of the text. Worth it for the art reproductions alone, and a story that shows how an artist and a person can be an interesting product of culture, society, and innate genius. ... Read more

Book Description

Quezada creates stunning pots in the traditional style of the Casas Grandes people, including using human hair to make brushes and cow dung to feed the fire. This real-life story is written in the form of "The House That Jack Built," and relays how Juan’s pioneering work has changed a poor village into a prosperous community of world-class artists. Illustrated by Caldecott Medal winner David Diaz. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

My kid is obsessed with this book
The absorbing subject matter of this book, presented through catchy rhymes and alliteration and strong, colorful illustrations, has completely captured the imagination of my four-year-old. For three days now, he's been "Juan" almost exclusively, following ants to a vein of "the very best clay, all squishy and white," pretending to make vessels for every conceivable purpose, and peppering me with questions about Mexico, pottery-making, and Juan himself. I've had to draw the line at cutting my hair for paintbrushes and gathering the "dried cow manure" left by the neighborhood dogs. "The Pot That Juan Built" appeals to pre-schoolers' burgeoning interest in rhyme and other aspects of language; making things out of simple materials; and the world around them generally. I give it my highest recommendation!

Excellent, Beautiful Book!
I'm appalled at the lack of love for this book! I am a teacher of a 3rd grade classroom in California where my children are learing about how humans use the world around them to create their life and build their culture. This book is a perfect tie-in to this concept. The illustrations are beautiful and I found the rhymes to be intelligent and descriptive. Two thumbs up from me, and 48 thumbs up from my class!!

A Modern Classic
This is a beautiful book, in illustration and in content. It is the true story of Juan Quezada, a potter, and a celebratory tale of the village of Mata Ortiz, Mexico. Quezada's discovery of ancient pottery methods transformed Mata Ortiz from an impoverished village into a prosperous community of world-renowned artists. The story is cleverly told in the form of "The House That Jack Built". It is sing-song-y in it's rhythm and children will be enraptured by the story Ms. Andrews-Goebel has written and the beautifully vibrant illustrations of Caldecott Award winning illustrator, David Diaz. A more complete story of the famous pottery is told on the facing pages, providing intricate details of a fascinating process. A photo-illustrated afterward follows Quezada through the process of creating a pot, from the digging of the clay to the completed product. This book is a great addition to any child's multicultural library and informs us of one of the great contemporary and nationally recognized Mexican artists. DELIGHTFUL!!!

not a good seller
The pictures are very nice. But as other reviewers have said, the structure and layout is fatally flawed and the writing style more appealing to adults who grew up knowing "The House that Jack Built". I'm finding it's not a popular seller. As a bookstore owner, I'm also finding that the publishing industry is more and more out of touch with consumer demand. That even goes for many of these smaller companies. Lee & Low, I admire your multicultural aim, but shake up your editorial dept. please! Many of your books are too similar, the writing trite and stilted. Do more humor, go deeper, be more original in style and content!

not impressed, kids were bored
The art is not as stunning as in some other recent titles, but certain design elements are unique and make for an interesting composition. I encountered resistance when reading this story to my kindergarten class. They lost interest when I reached the historical information on the right side of the book. It was an interesting idea to incorporate the true facts of Juan's life, but I think the structure and layout of the story suffers from this dense presentation of facts. As for the poetry, I would have been more impressed by an original voice and rhythm uniquely suited to its Mexican subject and setting, and not borrowed from a Classic nursery rhyme. ... Read more

Reviews (17)

A priceless resource on the fundamentals of drawing animals.
This book is a clearly written and easy to follow step-by-step guide to drawing animals by applying a comparative anatomy system using geometric shapes to help you understand how animals are put together. This fully illustrated reference contains over a thousand diagrams and illustrations and is structured into twenty carefully organized sections in which the author covers the basic and not-so-basic concepts, principles and techniques you need in order to produce realistic, three dimensional and anatomically accurate renderings of animals.
His topics on specific animals include: the cat family, the bear family, the horse family, the elephant, the dog family, the camel, the giraffe, the hippopotamus, the rhinoceros, the deer family, the buffalo, the cow, the pig, the monkey and the ape family, the kangaroo and the rabbit. As an added bonus he includes other topics: Odd and Unusual Animals, Miscellaneous Small Animals and Animal Interpretation and Abstraction, as well as an Introduction to Animal Drawing in which he focuses on animal simplification, structure, construction, poses, gaits and movements, comparisons and techniques on how to make animals look more natural. As a warning, note that this book only explains how to draw mammals and doesn't include mollusks, amphibians, insects, reptiles or birds.
By studying this book as if it were a textbook on a course, doing all the exercises and reviewing each section afterwards, I have steadily improved my drawings of animals in such a short time that I am now constantly rewarded with praise from my friends and family.
This book will give to the beginner the fundamentals of drawing animals, and will give to the seasoned artist and professional new principles and techniques to try. For both, this book is a must buy.

Jack does it right
Jack's book here is one of the best and most useful. Animals can be tough, admility, and Jack clears up some commen problems faced when drawing these beauitful creatures. Topics range from drawing horses, dogs, big and small cats, elephants, and bears. There are literally hundreds of clear and precise images in this book! Give this book a try, you can't go wrong. The pricetag and content are unbeatable!

The Wham Of Hamm
Jack Hamm is a solid, versatile, and fundamentally sound artist with a rare knack for organizing and presenting information in a simple and clear way. This book, one of his four classic how-tos of drawing, has already been a gift to artists everywhere for generations, and is a priceless resource of knowledge and information. Along with Hultgren's similar book, this is the classic workbook on the subject.

Hamm stresses a solid approach to the construction and anatomy of animals, but also helps the reader grasp the conceptual aspects of how animals are put together and what similarities and differences are important to comprehend. The book is very thorough in grouping animals into basic families, such as big cats, monkeys, elephants, etc., and the organization of the book is a major plus. Hamm is sharply focused on construction, solidity, and three-dimensional views of animals and how they move. A college art course could be taught from this book.

Hamm's greatest admirers have always been his peers- fellow artists will tell you that this is the right aproach to drawing animals, and this book will remain in print and in use forever.

Great Reference for Drawing Animals!
This book is a great reference book for drawing animals and is relatively thorough in showing the different types and their common similarities across, and within, species. I thought it was very good in explaining animal anatomy and smaller details such as how to correctly stripe a tiger. However, you will definitely need to see the animals in person or have your own photo resources because there are no accompanying photos.

Canned Hamm
It's a good book about learning the natural poses of animals. If you like to swipe material to use for sketches this is the book for it. It teaches you how animals look in the wild. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Good Book by a Favorite Author
This is an encouraging autobiographical tale. Tommy was sure he would grow up to be an artist. He is discouraged by people in his life at times but fortunately Tommy prevails. Thank goodness; we now have an excellent children's author/illustrator to enjoy!

The Art Lesson
When Tommy wants to become an artist, he trys everything he can to be the best artist. When Tommy's older brother goes to school and has art class Tommy can't wait till he gets art lessons.
Tommy really wants to draw, and that is what he spends most of his time doing. When Tommy finally gets to go to art lessons, he wants to draw what he wants, not what the teacher tells him. So the teacher tell him once he draws what she wants him to he can draw anything he wants, and he sure did.
I think that it is really great that Tommy never gave up drawing and it followed him through his whole life, and he is still doing it today. I would recommend this book for children ages 4-8, and I think that it would show kids to do what they want to and never give up.

The Art Lesson-- by: Tomie dePaola
I really enjoyed this book. It tells a true story about the author, Tomie dePaola's personal experiences with teachers in his early years of art. My favorite character in this book is Tommy. I love the ending that shows that Tommy's art passion has followed him throughout his whole life, to when he is a grown man. I would recommend this book to any one of any age that is looking for something to read.

A boy who loves to draw
In this picture book, Tomie dePaola tells the story of how a little boy became an artist. DePaola's simple text combined with his wonderfully expressive illustrations tell the story perfectly. My 4 year-old son identified with the little boy in the book. I identified with the mother who gently reprimands him for drawing on bedsheets but proudly displays his artwork throughout the house. This book contains a very pleasant surprise ending for young readers who are familiar with dePaola's works such as STREGA NONA and BILL & PETE. Don't miss this one.

Terrific Read!
Do you want to read a terrific book with fantastic illustrations? If you said yes, then The Art Lesson is the book for you.
We enjoyed reading a book where the child really grows up doing what he has always wanted to do. This is a story about a child who loves to draw. His teacher only gives him one piece of paper and won't let him use his birthday crayons. But still this can't stop him from drawing. Read The Art Lesson to find out how he solves his problem. ... Read more

Book Description

Drawing is what Ramon does.It's what makes him happy. But in one split second, all that changes. A single reckless remark by Ramon's older brother, Leon, turns Ramon's carefree sketches into joyless struggles. Luckily for Ramon, his little sister, Marisol, sees the world differently. She opens his eyes to something a lot more valuable that getting things just "right."

Combining the spareness of fable with the potency of parable, Peter Reynolds shines a bright beam of light on the need to kindle and tend our creative flames with care in this companion to The Dot. ... Read more

Book Description

Frank Howell's paintings dazzle the viewer with their luminous colors and haunting images.A unique chronicler of the native people and natural beauty of the Southwest, Howell pulls us into a spiritually charged world resonant with multiple meanings.Whether he's painting a pair of hands, a bird in flight or the face of an old woman, Howell can look upon the familiar and see something no one else sees.His sense of wonder and his passion make his often solitary figures enormously expressive; they inhabit a physically spare but spiritually rich universe that Howell reveals through his extraordinary artistry.

This stunning overview of Frank Howell's work includes full-color reproductions of almost eighty paintings, many exclusive to this collection, as well as black-and-white photographs of the artist at work.Michael French's account of Howell's personal and professional development, based on extensive interviews, offers intriguing insights into the man behind the work.In addition, Frank Howell shares his thoughts on many of his paintings, affording a unique glimpse into a special universe, which this contemporary shaman evokes with power, passion and profound beauty. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Spellbinding Art
This book opened my eyes toa very different art form.Even after reading the book ,I don't exactly know what to make of it except that I found it interesting and really enjoyable.Obviously, Howell's subjects,techniques and realism are spellbinding.I guess what bothers me about this art is that I do not possess the faith expressed behind the art.Mother Earth,spirituality of ancestors ,circles of life,dream catchers,shamens,animal spirits,etc.,really escape me ;but that does not prevent me from enjoying the art.The imagination that comes through the painting "Fruit from the Light" coupled with the color,lighting and finess in the hair results in a painting that you just want to look at and enjoy for its own beauty.To me it doesn't matter who she is, what is on her mind,what does the painter want us to feel;I think that is to be determined by the viewer.
However,I must say that there is a great amount of mood running through his paintings which I find hard to describe.Haunting,bearing witness,distance,come to mind;but nothing such as happiness, hope,anticipation,peace,anger,etc.The images seem to say "This is me,and that's it ." I am looking forward to seeing more of his work.
So, if you like Indian Art with a strong slant on realism and a little mysticism,you should enjoy this book.

Breathtaking renderings of Native American subjects
Frank Howell's work will take your breath away. This beautiful edition contains both poetry and a wonderful collection of Howell's sensitive and luminous work. You will find yourself looking at it again and again! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Simply the best!
For ten years, I've been painting faces for carnivals, parties, Halloween - you name it - this book can take rank beginners and allow them to paint very professional looking faces. The instructions are easy to follow, and elaborate on multiple techniques, including sponging and using different brush tips to achieve different effects. I highly recommend it - a word of caution- use only high quality face paints as they cover and blend better than the cheapos! Enjoy!

Face Painting (Hotshots Series)
This is a nice, compact, book on face painting. It briefly covers materials, equipment, and technique before showing you a nice variety of face-painting ideas. The directions for achieving each look, while not detailed, are sufficient to create the desired effect. Wonderful for Halloween ideas. ... Read more

Amazon.com

"Even when Roberto was little, he went against the grain. Like mosttermites, he melted over maple, and pined for pine. Oak was okay, too. ButRoberto didn't eat his food. He played with it."

Young Roberto has a burning desire to become an architect. Even when the othertermites mock his ambition, Roberto is never derailed from his dream. So, likeso many career-minded youth, this mite with a mission sets off for the big,buggy city. Here, sadly, he is thwarted by his heroes, Hank Floyd Mite and FleasVan Der Rohe. But this inspired insect decides not to wallow in his sorrows butto help out other bugs with even greater problems. Soon, a fantastic, eclectichousing development is in the works. The mysterious architect chooses to remainanonymous, but ultimately can't avoid the grateful adulation of the carpenterants, ladybugs, and house flies he has helped.

Nina Laden's fantastic collages use old catalog and magazine images, blueprints,cork veneer, and lots more, to create buildings, cities, and buggy creatures thelikes of which you've never seen. The Leaning Tower of Pisa tilts away from theEmpire State Building, with Gaudi's quirky sculptural edifices looming nearby.Some of the hilarious wordplay may fly over the heads of non-architects, but theoverall humorous effect--and the go-for-your-goals message--will not be lost onanyone. For more charming and artistic pun-ishment, try Laden's When Pigasso Met Mootisse.(Ages 6 to 11) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (4)

My architect husband loves this book!
My husband just recently purchased this book. We both love it! I love the story line and how Roberto does not quite fit in with the other termites. He follows his dreams, and eventually, parent termites want their kids to be just like him! The illustrations in this book are also great!

A Terrific Little Termite!
From the beginning, Roberto was different. He loved his wood, but he'd always rather play with his food than eat it. More than anything he wanted to become a famous architect like his heroes, Hank Floyd Mite and Fleas Van Der Rohe. Belittled at home by the other termites and never taken seriously, Roberto sets off for the big city to "build his dreams." Life in the city is hard, and not just for Roberto. He meets all kinds of bugs with housing problems, including roaches chased from a diner, a housefly with no place to go and a poor ladybug whose house is on fire and children are gone. Marshalling all his determination, Roberto decides to build a new community, that will meet the needs of these out-of-luck bugs and maybe make his architect dreams come true at the same time..... Nina Laden has written and illustrated a delightful and amusing story with a most improbable hero and youngsters will be rooting for Roberto as he chases and finally realizes his heart's desire, in his bug eat bug world. Ms Laden's witty text, full of creative wordplay, will charm adults as well as children and her outstanding collage artwork, so full of wonderful detail, really brings this story to life. A terrific picture book for youngsters 4-8, Roberto the Insect Architect lets everyone know that with hard work, your dreams can come true.

Fantastically fun and ingeniously imaginative
A delightful story about a termite who overcomes all opposition to become a world renowned architect. The message that you can be anything you want to be is very obvious but the unusual characters and clever word play keep the book from sounding preachy. The illustrations are an integral part of this tale and greatly enhance the overall effect. My only reservation about this book is that while the length and format are ideal for younger children, many of the plays on words that make the story so enjoyable will only be understood by an older audience.

A Howard Roark for the termite set
Insect architects! This is an inspired little story with theunlikely prospect of a termite who dreams of building with wood instead of eating it.... Roberto sets off for the big buggy city in search of his dream.

The story is encouraging, and the wordplay witty but it's the fantastically funky collages that win you over. Laden uses all sorts of images... to create unreal insect edifaces. You'll find yourself staring at the quirky seussian architecture and chuckling at all the in-jokes.

A treat for the eyes and very fun! ... Read more

Book Description

It all started when I told my friend Art I would meet him on the corner of Fifthand Fifty-Third. I didn’t see him. So I asked a lady walking up the avenue,"Have you seen Art?" "MoMA?" asked the lady. "Just down Fifty-Third Street here." When this address turns out to be the Museum of Modern Art in New York City, confusion andhilarity ensue.As the narrator continues looking for Art inside MoMA, he views the best pieces ofmodern art. ... Read more

Book Description

The third in a series of popular coloring books, this volumefeatures 22 new mandala designs by the therapist Monique Mandali. Color these mandalas for pleasure, to reduce stress, or as a meditationexercise.Equally appropriate for children or adults. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Engaging the Center
I purchased the whole series and look forward to coloring or painting them all. They are deeply engaging, neither too simple nor too complex; calling me into a calm center where hope and healing not only feel possible but just seem to happen. A very thoughtful and creative bonus from the author that I've not seen in other Mandala books is the wide perforated margin at the center binding in every book so you can actually remove and display your favorite mandalas afterwards. This rare feature also makes it especially friendly to those of us who are left-handers!!!

Everyone's Mandala Coloirng Book Series
Author, artist, transpersonal psychotherapist and business person all describe what Monique Mandali is, but do not tell you who she is. I've been privileged to meet Monique and I know that she is a seeker traveling her path. Her walking stick is her love for all, especially children. Ms. Mandali offers a series of four coloring books for children and adults. There are three different delights in the original Everyone's Mandala Coloring Book series, each consisting of 22 designs. While the original three books in the series contain designs by the author, the latest (and perhaps greatest) has 25 peace mandalas from children all around the world. The Peace Mandala Coloring Book is very special because the mandalas are designed by children unencumbered by the pressure of adult living. Further, they bring a variety of spiritual as well as geographical cultures to bear.

Monique Mandali has given us something special. Not only do we find drawings to color that can aid in health and serenity...Everyone's Mandala Coloring Book Series is additionally special because they represent the best part of Monique Mandali, her love!

The designs and the story make these unique!
My love affair with these coloring books has only intensified with the publication of Volume 3! The author's experiences and "story" which inspired this volume are infectious in their appeal. What continues to amaze me is that fact that, depending upon the day, the moment, whatever, individual designs leap out at me. A design that draws me to it one time is rarely the same design that attracts me so forcefully another time. Ahhhh - mandalas. After being exposed to them by Monique, I now see them every where! Hurray! They make the world a better place! Plus, I'm never at a loss for a good gift! I give them to people of all ages who all love them! Keep them coming, Monique!

Another wonderful mandala coloring book by Monique
Monique's third book may just be my favorite. I really like her personal story in the preface (check it out on her website). I love how she ties East and West together in these mandalas. Monique: don't stop now. When are you coming out with Volume 4? ... Read more

Reviews (3)

More than a kids' "busybook"
The craft instructions in this book are indeed easy, fun, cheap to do (etc) for kids. But the best part was the discussion in the back of the book on appropriate levels of creative projects for kids of different ages. It clearly outlined what attention span and dexterity level you should expect from kids of different ages. And it had useful advice for adults on how to make the project fun for kids; not just push the child to produce an "aesthetically ideal" finished project. That unanticipated inclusion in the book made it really stand out for me.

A wonderful anthology of craft ideas for kids of all ages!
Kids Create! is an excellent collection that uses various mediums and can apply to children with varied artistic ability. I am a 6th grade art teacher, and I purchased the book after borrowing it from the library. There are too many wonderful ideas to let it slip away! My students especially love Carlson's collection of sculpting projects.

Simple crafts - using readily available supplies
Very useful book for those responsible for keeping young children interested and involved with handicaft projects. Supplies are readily alvailable and at nominal cost. Instructons are clear and uncomplicated. ... Read more