Children's Lit Book Reviews

Summary: This book helps children discover the boundless potential of watercolors through this beautifully illustrated and expertly written guide. The author, Michael Clarke, who has been acknowledged for his knowledge on the subject, reflects on historical and stylistic development of watercolor art from the beginning to the present day. The precise detail of medieval illuminated manuscripts, pages from the watercolor sketchbooks of great artists, and watercolor illustrations from classic children's literature are addressed. This book teaches how ancient Egyptian tomb paintings were produced, why Turner took his watercolor paint box on vacation, how watercolor was used in the designs of William Morris, and how Picasso found new ways or working in watercolor. Readers will discover how female assistants color washed the work of 18th-century caricaturists, how watercolor is used today in architecture and fashion design, why Nicholas Hilliard used a mussel shell as a palette, the courtly art of Indian watercolorists, and much more.
Who would benefit from reading this book? I think that all children and even adults would walk away from this book with more knowledge about painting and watercolors. It is a great resource for elementary art teachers to use when introducing the watercolor unit.
What problems/concerns could this book potentially cause? I don't think that this book will cause any problems and or concerns with any parents or teachers.
My reaction: I liked this book very much. I will definitely recommend this book to all parents. I think that this will encourage young readers to use their critical thinking skills and to think about art within their own life.