Two intrepid librarians

Two intrepid librarians review the best nonfiction books for children

Monday, June 24, 2019

Degas: Painter of Ballerinas

Degas: Painter of Ballerinas 
by Susan Goldman Rubin
illustrations provided by the Metropolitan Museum of Art
Abrams Books for Young Readers, 2019
Grades 2-12

Susan Goldman Rubin has written biographies of many artists including Diego Rivera, Andy Warhol, Maya Lin, Georgia O'Keefe and the Wyeth family. Her latest biography children captures the life and essence of Edgar Degas in just sixty-pages.

Rubin uses quotes from Degas and his paintings, sketches and sculptures to present a complete portrait of the artist. While other impressionist artists turned their attention to nature and landscapes, Degas spent his time at the Paris Opera where he painted and sketched young ballerinas (also known as petits rats). Degas lost his eyesight in his later years and gave up sketching and painting for sculpting.

Degas: Painter of Ballerinas is the perfect book to introduce children to the artist. It also provides insight in the artist and techniques for readers who may be familiar with his work. The artwork, which is placed thoughtfully throughout the book, is a strength and will help children understand more about Degas' style and medium. The book is a recommended purchase for libraries and art classes.

1 comment:

  1. This one looks great! Thanks for the reminder! Putting it on the to-read list :)

    ReplyDelete