Kirkus Star
THE KIRKUS STAR
Awarded to Books of Exceptional Merit

BROWSE BOOK REVIEWS




Introducing Artists with Picture Books


Cover art for BALLOONS OVER BROADWAY
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 31, 2011
by Melissa Sweet, illustrated by Melissa Sweet

"This clever marriage of information and illustration soars high. (bibliography of adult sources, quote sources, acknowledgements, period photo) (Picture book/biography. 4-8)"
This bright, brimming picture biography commemorates Tony Sarg, a brilliant, self-taught artist whose innovative helium balloons delighted legions of Macy's parade watchers from 1928 on. Read full book review >
Cover art for FABULOUS!
CHILDREN'S
Released: May 24, 2011

"Though readers will need to consult the backmatter for the details of the more complex and tumultuous years from the mid-'60s to his death in 1987, they will find this a vital and exciting child-appropriate introduction to an American icon. (Picture book/biography. 6-9)"
The "fabulous" life of Andy Warhol is made accessible and understandable via this child-friendly look at the life and career of one of America's most recognizable painters. Read full book review >
Cover art for DIEGO RIVERA
CHILDREN'S
Released: May 1, 2011
by Duncan Tonatiuh, illustrated by Duncan Tonatiuh

"Both solid introduction and exhortation, this book will thrill budding artists. (glossary, author's note, bibliography, lists of museums and paintings) (Picture book/biography. 5-9)

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A simple picture-book biography of Diego Rivera concentrates on his artistic career and encourages children to imagine themselves painting their own world. Read full book review >
Cover art for DAVE THE POTTER
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 7, 2010
by Laban Carrick Hill, illustrated by Bryan Collier

"Nonetheless, an accomplished, visually stunning homage to an important African-American artist. (author's and illustrator's notes, bibliography, websites) (Picture book/poetry/biography. 7-10)"
The enslaved 19th-century potter Dave, who lived and worked near Edgefield, S.C., could transform 60 pounds of clay into a 40-gallon pot. Read full book review >
Cover art for SUMMER BIRDS
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 27, 2010
by Margarita Engle, illustrated by Julie Paschkis

"They, too, will imagine themselves growing up to follow their dreams. (historical note) (Picture book/biography. 4-9)"
It's not often that someone is born both a great scientist and a great artist, especially if that someone is a girl in the middle of the 17th century. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE SECRET WORLD OF WALTER ANDERSON
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2009
by Hester Bass, illustrated by E.B. Lewis

A gorgeous chronicle of a versatile southern American artist. Read full book review >