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OXFORD FIRST BOOK OF ART

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)

Pub Date: Nov. 29, 1999

ISBN: 0-19-521556-7

Page Count: 48

Publisher: Oxford Univ.

Review Posted Online: May 19, 2010

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Nov. 1, 1999

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AUNT PEGGY'S WINDMILL

AND OTHER STORIES

It’s hard to imagine US children responding enthusiastically to this heavy-handed series of short stories with a strong British flavor. In “Auntie Peggy’s Windmill,” an eccentric aunt steps in to care for her niece and nephew when their parents are injured in an automobile accident. Odd but good-hearted, Auntie Peggy engages in ongoing conversations with God that serve to encourage the children and, ultimately their parents, to become believers in the efficacy of prayer. “The Park People” details the interactions of children and adults who live in a semi-circle of homes facing a small park area. Each of these stories tackles a real problem, from bullying to childhood depression, but they are inhabited by shallow characters, and resolved simplistically. (Fiction. 6-9)

Pub Date: Nov. 1, 1999

ISBN: 0-551-03207-3

Page Count: 187

Publisher: N/A

Review Posted Online: May 19, 2010

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Nov. 1, 1999

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IN THE PALM OF DARKNESS

In The Palm Of Darkness ($21.00; May 1997; 192 pp.; 0-06-018703- 4): A Cuban writers's intensely imaginative portrait of the extremities of Haitian culture rings some fresh changes on the overfamiliar theme of intellectual arrogance humbled by its collision with ``elemental'' peasant wisdom. Montero subtly builds up a revealing contrast between Victor Griggs, a European herpetologist searching for the remaining specimens of an endangered species of amphibian, and his native guide Thierry Adrien's memories of his family's encounter with the island's ubiquitous spirits. This truly original novel is studded with surprises—not least of which is the concept of a species suddenly and entirely disappearing in a milieu where the living and the dead are known to mingle together more or less matter-of-factly. A refreshingly sophisticated treat. (Author tour)

Pub Date: May 1, 1997

ISBN: 0-06-018703-4

Page Count: 192

Publisher: HarperCollins

Review Posted Online: May 19, 2010

Kirkus Reviews Issue: April 15, 1997

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