Seventeen thematic double-page spreads introduce art from many centuries and cultures. Short paragraphs describe one or two important facets of each piece, while questions and a hands-on activity for each theme and a final Detective Quiz invite closer involvement. Focused writing, well-selected reproductions, and a logical layout provide a strong foundation for visual literacy and art appreciation. Ind. From HORN BOOK Spring 2000, (c) Copyright 2010. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Gr. 1^-4. Arranged by theme like Lucy Mickelthwait's A Child's Book of Art [BKL My 15 99], this introduction to fine art is a first-rate next step, providing a thoughtful text to go with excellent reproductions. Using vivid language, Wolfe gives children background information on each piece of art and advises about specific things to look at. She groups the paintings, drawings, sculptures, and other media into topics such as "Faces" or "Light and Shade," and although there is clearly some effort here to be multicultural, the emphasis is on European paintings. Several of the spreads include art-related activities, some of which will be challenging. Also included are sections flagged with a magnifying glass labeled "Look closer," where the author asks readers to find particular things in the artwork, drawing them further into close examination. An "art detective quiz" at the book's conclusion, and a list of the artworks discussed, round out the treatment. --Susan Dove Lempke

More than anything else, this introduction to art explains how to look at art by asking simple questions about what is shown, in order to understand what an artist is trying to communicate. The samples of artwork are from a wide range of time periods and cultures; medieval and Aboriginal art are included as well as examples of pop, impressionistic, and surrealistic art. While the text explains some of the historical information necessary to understand the works, Wolfe's emphasis is to persuade readers to bring their own experiences to their understanding of art. How are colors used to reflect seasons and temperatures? In what ways do the poses or expressions of people and animals portray emotional states? In this way, those new to looking at art will begin to trust their own interpretations of what they see, instead of feeling intimidated or in need of expert explanation. Large, attractive reproductions invite readers to linger over the pages. (index) (Nonfiction. 5-10)

K-Gr 4-This oversized introduction highlights paintings, drawings, weavings, and sculpture from all over the world and throughout the ages. Wolfe uses examples that children will understand, such as the gentleness and tenderness between "Mother and Child" depicted in Mary Cassatt's The Child's Bath, and, in contrast, a parent's anger in Hubert von Herkomer's The Naughty Boy. Other topics include "Faces," "Figures," "Animals," "Light and Shade," and "Patterns." "That's Strange" features Ren‚ Magritte's surrealistic Golconda. Each topical double-page spread offers a "Look Closer" challenge where readers are asked to search for details in the particular pieces. A related art activity is also given. An invaluable "Picture List" offers information about where the original works are located, their sizes, the artists, and what mediums were used. Clear, full-color reproductions and photographs illustrate the text. A volume to spark children's imaginations and their interest in art.-Patricia Mahoney Brown, Benjamin Franklin Elementary School, Kenmore, NY (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.