At the turn of the 20th century, it was very rare, almost unheard of, for a woman to become an artist. But Georgia O’Keeffe was indeed a rare commodity, and her talent and determination could not be denied. She saw the world filled with color, brightness, light and astonishing shapes. Whether she lives in the city or on her beloved Ghost Ranch in New Mexico, “Every where she looks, shapes hum and sing to her.” Art is her means of communication, more intense than the spoken or written word. Using the most basic biographical facts and the sparest language, Rodriguez offers a glimpse into O’Keeffe’s unique world and beseeches the reader to “lean in and look closer.” Paschkis’s remarkable cut-paper collages on acrylic perfectly evoke O’Keeffe’s vision without ever seeming like mere imitation. It is not often that author, illustrator and subject come together so seamlessly. Breathtaking. (afterword) (Picture book/nonfiction. All ages)
