MY FRIEND THE PAINTBRUSH

A classic picture-book creator gives himself permission to crank up the creative silliness.

Addressing readers directly, Pfister praises the reliable, remarkable “friend” referenced in his title: his paintbrush. Gentle rhymes, translated from German, praise this pal’s talents and ability to adapt as needed. Along the way, Pfister indulges in a range of artistic techniques, literally illustrating these points. Oil and gouache, watercolor and acrylics—his “friend” allows him to use them all (notwithstanding a small jab at digital art). Pfister’s past creations make cameos throughout, and his many fans will recognize old friends and may even be introduced to new ones. While cheery, not all the rhymes scan easily (“You might find a picture looks blurred to your sight, / And think it needs improving. / But no, my friend has got it just right— / The creature keeps on moving”). The text ends abruptly, with the artist admitting that any mistakes readers notice in his work are entirely his own. After this comes backmatter that includes a retrospective of Pfister’s work, written with an older audience in mind. While he notes that he would be “delighted if all this inspires your own creative spirit,” the complex descriptions accompanying this gallery work will be of most interest to Pfister’s grown fanbase.

A must for the author’s legions of followers.