Download Description

As Robert Kiyosaki writes in Rich Dad, Poor Dad, the poor and the middle class work for their money, but the rich make money work for them. Now this phenomenally popular financial philosophy is explained in a style that's perfect for teenagers. Rich Dad, Poor Dad for Teens distills the principles of cash flow, assets and liabilities, saving and investing money, and how to find opportunities to "create money" by presenting these points in a voice and format geared toward younger readers. Best of all, Rich Dad's advice is accessible to all teens, no matter how "smart" or confident they feel about money. Parents and teachers seeking creative, accessible ways to teach "financial intelligence" to teens will also find this book a useful tool. More than ever, teens and parents are realizing that it's never too early to become financially literate, and this book gives them a means to get started. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Little Hands
This is a very useful book for a parent who wants to work along her child. Activities are well explained and organized by supplies needed, so you won't have to browse through all the pages to find something appropriate for the supplies you have at home. Also, though not clearly stated, there are holiday activities. Older children, especially those younger than nine, will find this book useful. And, they should be able to follow thw instructions with very little help, if any.

More Crafts than Art. found here.
As an artist and parent who now teaches art to young children, I think this book has some cute craft ideas but is not the best introduction to art for children. I prefer Scribble Art by Mary Ann Kohl - it has a similar easy-to-read format with projects that can be adapted to almost any age, but Scribble Art involves more open-ended projects that allow for creativity and self-expression. Little Hands is more results oriented - for instance, if you want to make a quick turtle using a plastic bowl, this book will show you how. Many of projects involve a specific end result - a representational image of a pumpkin or porcupine. Granted, there are times for this; however, I prefer an approach to allows children to create their own subject matter, or explore freely within a given material or technique.

Excellent book for daycare providers or at-home moms!
This book not only provides awesome project ideas, but also shows how to make it simpler or more complex based on age AND provides other ideas and/or book suggestions to go along with the project. It takes a the idea of doing a project with your littles ones to a whole new level. An excellent source for daycare providers, stay-at-home moms, and home schoolers!

By far the best home arts & crafts book for preschoolers
After being disappointed repeatedly by other books of this type, I was lucky enough to find this one. Nothing compares with it in terms of simplicity, creative fun, easy instructions, excellent illustrations, availability of materials at home, variety. My 3 and 4-year olds' favorite afternoon activity is to flip thru the pages and pick out a project - and they are always delighted by the results. My favorite gift to other mothers of preschoolers. Only one word of advise - the clay recipes are not the best - in particular the play dough one - but it's common enough to find elsewhere. If you're going to buy one book in this category, I couldn't recommend this one more. ... Read more

Book Description

These original mandala designs by wholistic therapist MoniqueMandali appeal to both children and adults.Mandalas have beentraditionally used as a source of wisdom and meditation. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

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 COLORING 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!

Awesome designs; inspiring and peaceful to color and see.
All three volumes of these mandala coloring books are works of art, and at the same time simple invitations to create your own expressions of color and self. I have used them, given them to children and adults, used them in the work I do, and enjoyed seeing the finished products displayed. Monique's designs allow you to explore deeply what lies within, and also allows you to play with her designs. These books are truly what you make them, yet stand as a statement of Monique's unique artistic and spiritual beauty. Once you have seen and used them, you'll want to explore all of them, and share them with friends. A real "don't miss" for this time in our spiritual unfolding.

The ultimate in relaxation!
What a wonderful way to relax ... and to get the creativity within flowing! To be able to sit and feel the energy that has been created with coloring one of Monique's mandalas is a wonderful way to spend an evening ... by yourself or sharing it with friends!

My Favorite Coloring Book
I have been coloring the designs in this book since I was 5 years old and have never grown tired of them! (And trust me, I have a short attention span). Now, 20 years later, this book remains a favorite of mine, and I still occasionally have coloring parties with my friends. Everyone finds a design that speaks to them, and the results are very unique. ... 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

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

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

Reviews (6)

The diverse and prolific art career of Pablo Picasso
Well, if there is one artist who is perfect for Mike Venezia's "Getting to Know the World's Greatest Artists" series it would have to be Pablo Picasso. Venezia comes to a key point about Picasso right off the bat, comparing a 1896 painting "The Altar Boy," done when Picasso was 15 with "Boy in Sailor Suit with Butterfly Net" done when he was 57 in 1938. Of course the first is done in a realist mode and the second is abstract. In fact, Venezia would be hard pressed to identify all of the different styles in which Picasso painted over the course of his career, but he does try. Venezia is able to focus on Picasso's Blue Period as the point where his work finally became different from anyone else's. We also look at the Rose Period and Cubism, with a lengthy section devoted to Picasso's most powerful and serious painting, "Guernica." However, the most insightful part of the book is when we see Piccaso's "Portrait of Jaime Sabartes as a Spanish Grandee" with another portrait done from a photograph. The comparison shows that although the painting was abstract, he still managed to make it look like the real person.

This book certainly serves as a decent introduction for young readers to the life and art of Picasso. The problem is that we are talking about one of the most prolific and diverse artists in the history of art and 32 pages is simply not enough space to do the subject justice. Venezia provides enough specifics about a few of the paintings to constitute some first steps in the direction of real art appreciation. There are 16 paintings by Picasso reproduced in this book, which are about how many are seen behind the artist in the picture of Picasso in his studio that opens the book. As always with Picasso, the most interesting thing will be to see which "style" youngers decide is best after reading this book.

This book is about...
This book was about a painter. The book is non-fiction. Picasso was in his teens when he started painting. He painted lots of famous pictures. One of his paintings was 12 feet high and 25 feet wide. He painted it because he was mad about people dying in the civil war in Spain. He likes to move noses and body parts around in his paintings. I liked learning about Picasso.

A huge hit with grades K-3
I use this whole series in my elementary art class - and my students absolutely love it. Venezia highlights what is interesting to K-3 students while avoiding aspects of artists' lives that may not be appropriate for a young audience. Students love the cartoons Venezia includes along with the color images of the artist's work.

Tells the story of Picasso's life
It was a very readable historical biography of Picasso's life and the evolution of his painting styles.

A great way to introduce your child to modern art!
Mike Venezia shows paintings from Picasso's various "periods" and explains them in terms a child can understand.("...Picasso felt alone and sad.") He compares the realistic portraits of Picasso's youth to the cubist portraits of his later career, asking the child questions and providing terminology to help him appreciate the difference. ("The man...looks like he's been broken up into little cubes....Can you see the man's face...hands...cat?)

Venezia's humorous cartoon comments highlight the controversies that surrounded Picasso's work and give the adult reader a chuckle, too.

After reading the book with him, my six-year-old grandson had fun trying to imitate, with his own body, the movement that Picasso was trying to portray with his "displaced" body parts. ... Read more

Book Description

This imaginative board book features beautiful paintings by a renowned artist paired with playful, rhyming text. In A Picnic with Monet, Claude Monet's light-filled paintings take children on an enchanted picnic in the countryside. This board book is a fun introduction ot art and an imaginative adventure all rolled into one! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Lovely, imaginative book
This book not only features Monet's beautiful paintings but the words are far above the quality usual found in children's books. It is enjoyable for adults as they share the artistic experience with their children. My eight month old baby loves it. It is one of her favorite books. I'm sure older children would appreciate it too. It's one of those books that parents won't mind reading again and again. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

I used to read the series in elementary school...
Mike Venezia's books on the greatest artists of all time are off the chain! He make his books more interesting for kids under 10. This one about Italian Renaissance artist Di Vinci is probably one of his famous ones. (Since Di Vinci is famous for his painting called the "Mona Lisa" 1503-1506). This book contains famous paintings (some with details) from Di Vinci including the deteriation of the tempera "The Last Supper" (1498), from the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan. Each book includes back cover illustration of Venezia. His books are small steps to learn about each artist. The series also includes Venezia's comic illustrations. In high school art history, the reader will learn more detail about the artists that the author couldn't tell you (like I did).

da Vinci's realistic paintings makes art real for the young
"Leonardo used what he learned from nature and science to make his paintings look real", p 9

The young reader will learn about Leonardo's beginnings in Vinci, the time he spent in Florence learning more about painting, his painting years in Milan and his final years of painting in France.

Leonardo's depictions were noticeable more "alive" than his Renaissance contemporaries. His use of beautiful backgrounds behind the main object of attention makes this a good choice for the young. Their attention will initially be drawn to the main figure in the painting and then will be sustained by the natural settings in the background. His paintings almost appear that they are done while the person being painted in on vacation. The young will intuitively pick up on the relaxed composure of the main figures

Venezia's illustrations are humorous. His narrative is delightfully entertaining. His approach brings the artist within reach of the young. His illustration of some folks deciphering Leonardo's notes and their findings is cleverly presented.

The size of the book is perfect for smaller hands. It enables the young to have art within their grasp. Venezia gives the locations of the paintings and as result if the child lives near one of the museums or will be near one on vacation, she/he would be able to see the original.

This is the 4th in Venezia's "Getting to know the World's Greatest Artist" series. He also has a similar series on composers. Venezia's back cover illustration ties back to the subject. "Mike's portrait was painted by an artist who claims to be a direct descendant of ...".

The price of the book is well worth paying. The book contains the following: da Vinci's Paintings (10.5), Drawings (8) and Underpainings (2), Venezia's Illustrations - 7, Others' paintings - 1.5. ... Read more

Book Description

This award winning book offers over 250 art activities designed to encourage kids to make art a part of their everyday lives. Skills and materials are described with how-tos and recipes, but the projects themselves are open-ended to encourage creativity and to allow different results each time and by different age levels.Parent guidelines empower even "art impaired" adults, providing what every parent and teacher needs to know to create an environment that gets kids excited about art. Winner of a Parent's Guide to Children's Media Award. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Great ideas, great approach to "teaching" art to children
Carolyn Holm has made a remarkable contribution in this book, for in it, she not only gives parents and teachers exciting ideas for "everyday" art projects, she also presents a clear and compellingrationale for approaching art with children with an open process.We usethis approach in the art studio of Habitot Children's Museum (a hands-onmuseum for young children in Berkeley).We see many parents who mean well,but who actually interfere in un-helpful ways with their their children'sart-making.This book is great for any parent or teacher who wants to seetheir children become truly creative and have high self-esteem. I recommendit highly!Gina Moreland, Director, Habitot Children's Museum ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Easy Art for Anyone
Easy discovery art for everyone, no matter what age. This book has been around for awhile, but the ideas are still classics.

THE book to get for the child artists in your life.
All of Mary Ann Kohl's art books are great, but if you have to start with just one, I would get this one. In fact, if you are teaching art to young children or working with your own child artists at home, this would be an ideal book to start with. Why? It covers all the mediums: drawing, painting, assemblage, printmaking, collage, sculpture and crafts. It contains open-ended projects that are suitable for almost any age. The projects allow children to explore materials and techniques and come up with their own ideas. Each page includes one project and is illustrated with line drawings. Each project is coded to show at a glance how much time/preparation is needed, what age/experience level the project is appropriate for, and so forth. My only complaint is that some of the projects call for the use of liquid starch which I have not been able to find (only spray starch and powder starch) - so I substitute watered down glue, which works. I teach art, am an art school graduate and a parent, and I have quite a few books on this subject, but this is the book I turn to most for ideas.

My favorite art book.
I really like this book. The ideas work every time, and the kids love them all. I don't think you need any other art idea book if you have this one.

You can do all this with crayons, glue and scissors!
There are over 100 ideas in this book for kids to create with no adult models or samples to copy. All you need are the basic art tools like scissors, crayons, glue, flour, salt, paper, tape. Try the Watercolor Salt project, if you want something amazing yet easy to win over any child to art.

Author Comments on Scribble Art
When I was teaching, these were the all-time best ideas that worked every time, with all ages. Art. Kids love it. When there is no expectation about the finished product, kids absolutely thrive in art! These ideas give them a push into paints, chalk, crayon, sculpting, or construction, and off they go. You will be amazed at the depth of joy and learning that takes place. Yes, I admit it, I love this book. Gee, I'm swell. ... Read more

Book Description

All new mandalas and a preface that explains new ways to use andenjoy mandalas for fun and stress reduction. ... 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 Coloring 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!

Wonderfully centering activity and a great gift!
Volume 2 of Everyone's Mandala Coloring Book has given me even more opportunities to share this wonderful, relaxing experience with friends of all ages - and to enjoy this peaceful, centering activity. Kudos to the author and creator!

A classic among mandala coloring books. Wonderful!
Gorgeous designs. I've purchased several copies as gifts for kids as well as older people and am not about to stop buying this wonderful coloring book. Plus I really like the perforated pages for easy removal of the pages. Thanks, Monique! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

One of the best art books for children( older children too)
This book has so many terrific, easy to follow, and imaginative ideas. The eye popping illustrations help as a visual aid to see what the end result may look like.I use many of the ideas for teaching middle school students as well as elementary. A must have for any art teacher.

Wonderful Resource!
Like all the Usborne books, this book is a great tool for learning. As an elementary teacher, I bought this book just to have as a handy reference. I have also used it with my kids at home, and it is everything I learned in a semester of college art class all rolled up into this handy children's book. With all my experience with Usborne books, I just can't get enough of them. For more information on Usborne books, visit ...

must have for elementary teachers, parents and creative kids
This colorful art book, is full of great ideas for elementary aged children. The projects are easy to read and recreate. The color images are inviting. The art images serve as inspriation for young artists. As an elementary teacher I plan to use this book full of easy and creative art ideas as my school years art curriculum. I am so excited to have such a wonderful children's art resource book. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Good simulated art of other cultures
This is another excellent art book in the "A Williamson Kids Can! Book" series. I have several in the series, all of which have provided me many ideas for my students' art projects. I have used this particular book least however, because the projects are more complicated than the other books, and require more adult intervention, especially with younger children. It's advertised as for ages 4-8, but for children to work more independently, I recommend most projects as suitable for ages 7-13.

Materials include paper, aluminum foil, yarn, salt dough, yarn, popsicle sticks, mud, paper plates, papier mache. There are recipes included for the papier mache and salt dough. The projects represent the following cultures: Native American, Latin American, African, Indian, Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Thai and Vietnamese. None are very authentic, but are good simulations of arts from these cultures, and can enhance cultural studies, or be done just for fun. One project I have returned to several times because of it's ease to do, and because of its attractive artistic results is the Guatemalan Wild Cat.

Great Crafts, Great Exposure to Other Cultures
This is a wonderful book with a range of easy to more complicated crafts for children from 4-8. We have done a number of the projects in here and not only do my children enjoy them, but they get some exposure to cultures outside of their own. There are suggestions for changing the art projects to incorporate more creative impulses as well. It's the one craft book I keep returning to because the ideas are so interesting. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Science made EASY!
This book is simply great. I bought several of Jean Potter's other books so when I found her name on line, I decided to buy this one. It is everything I thougt it would be and MORE! I love art, but never thought the two mixed. This is a book for every kid, teacher and parent!

I never realized how beautiful science can be.
I had never really thought how beautiful and mysterious and colorful and delightful science could be. This book inspires me, a person who has never really liked science all that much. Now I do! And I will pass that on to my kids when we do the Chromatography Art Experiment and separate colors on absorbant paper. Can't wait!

Wonderful way to integrate science and art!
What a wonderful and unique approach to science education! This book is jammed full of one-page "art experiments." The key is to use art projects to learn some science principles. Among many of the ideas to learn are dissolving, symmetry, reflecting light, gravity and friction. The only drawback is that the book could benefit from an introduction on the inquiry-based approach to learning...From The Science Spiders(TM) Newsletter.

A great resource book for preschool teachers
Like all of Mary Ann Kohl's books, this one is easily readable, with 1 activity listed per page, including pictures of the activity. It provides a reminder that science doesn't only happen at the science table! I often make my student interns choose an activity from this book (or MathArts)as the activities are open ended, process-oriented, and explained step by step. A great resource. ... Read more

Book Description

With narratives that will entertain art lovers of all ages, these two new board books are a fun way to introduce young children to fine art. The sleepy trees, golden haystacks, and juicy fruits of In the Garden with Van Gogh will delight little ones. And they’ll love spending A Magical Day with Matisse in a world full of music, color, bobbing sailboats, and tickled toes. Playful rhyming texts accompany the artists’ timeless paintings in these little masterpieces. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Great pics /cool rhymes
My little son loves this book...the authors have successfully chosen pictures and written wonderful poems for each picture that tell a story throughout the book. I find the poems great because they aren't the usual baby drivel and the meter of them is soft and lilting...perfect for bedtime! We also bought the matisse story (the van gogh is a little bit better) but both are great...looking for more!

Great Kid's Book
The author's have taken Van Gough's best and put together a rhyming book about the garden. The rhyme isn't easy but the cardboard backing and the bright photos are perfect for a toddler/new-born. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A basic introduction to the life and art of Michelagnelo
I have read enough volumes in Mike Venezia's "Getting to Know the World's Greatest Artists" series to know that the best volumes are those that combine biography with elementary art appreciation. Unfortunately, in this volume on Michelangelo the emphasis is almost entirely on the former. This might have something to do with the fact that the subject this time around was both a painter and a sculptor (not to mention architect), but for the most part Venezia labels these statues and paintings as great art without giving us an idea of how Michelangelo worked his magic (the exception that proves the point is when he talks about how the sculptor left chisel marks to create an effect when viewed from a distance).

Several of Michelangelo's most famous statues (David, Moses, the Pieta, etc.) are shown as is the entire ceiling of the Sistine Chapel (along with some closer views). Those who have seen the film "The Agony and the Ecstasy" will love Venezia's cartoon reflecting the tensions between the artist and Pope Julius II. Young readers will have to look elsewhere to find out more about the technique of Michelangelo (e.g., how he was different from his contemporaries in that he worked from the front of a piece of marble on a statue rather than attacking it from all sides), but this book will certainly introduce him to the statues and paintings that made him famous. Note: although Venezia talks about the restoration of the paintings in the Sistine Chapel, the photographs are taken prior to that monumental accomplishment.

The young have a grand time with Michelangelo's grand scale
"One of the things that made Michelangelo such a great artist was his ability to give a special energy and strength to the people he painted and sculpted," p.29

The young reader will learn about Michelangelo's beginnings in a city near Florence, the brief time he spent as a baby with a family of stonecutters, his years of study at the workshop of Ghirlandaio, his years under the patronage of Lorenzo de' Medici and his years working for Pope Julius II.

Michelangelo did things on a grand scale. His "David" of Goliath fame is 16 ft., 10 in. in height and took 2.5 years to complete. His "Ceiling of the Sistine Chapel" is 5800 sq. ft. in area and took 4 years to complete. The young when doing an art piece are frequently never able to complete it within the allotted time, regardless of the length of the allotted time. It seems there is a reluctance on the young's part to feel it is complete, because it seems there is always some additional work required. They share Michelangelo's art ethic and will appreciate his dedication.

My favorite sculpture in the book is Michelangelo's "Pieta," sculpted in 1498-1499. There is both an expressed fragility to Jesus' body and an overwhelming gentle strength in Mary's holding of him. It gives testimony to Michelangelo's complete oneness with the roughness and hardness of marble. The marble was putty in his hands.

Venezia's illustrations are humorous. His narrative is delightfully entertaining. His approach brings the artist within reach of the young. His portrayal of Pope Julius II in the Sistine Chapel offering unsolicited comments on Michelangelo's work jokingly brings to the fore the conflict that existed between the two.

The size of the book is perfect for smaller hands. It enables the young to have art within their grasp. Venezia gives the locations of the paintings and as result if the child lives near one of the museums or will be near one on vacation, she/he would be able to see the original.

This is the 11th in Venezia's "Getting to know the World's Greatest Artist" series. He also has a similar series on composers. Venezia's back cover illustration ties back to the subject. "Mike found it easy to relate to Michelangelo's painting the Sistine Chapel ...".

The price of the book is well worth paying. The book contains the following: Michelangelo's sculptures (5), chapel ceiling fresco (1), chapel wall fresco (1), marble relief (1), dome from building plan (1), and sculptures unfinished (2), Venezia's illustrations (7), Others' sculptures (2), frescoes (2) and gilt bronze panel (1).

Spring board to introduce classic artists
A book intended for ages 4-10, the book attempts to introduce the artist and his paintings. A very dry attempt at that, but it is a great spring board to start. A very simple book with cartoons to atract young readers. Samples paints with breif explainations of each work. I have used this book only as an introduction. I do follow up with more books that give a deep explaination. This book is an inexpesive way for children to experience various paintings and engage their natural curiosity to investigate further. To introduce the artists and his works of art this is an average book for the young. ... Read more