Picasso and the Girl with a Ponytail: An Art History Book For Kids (Homeschool Supplies, Classroom Materials) (Anholt's Artists Books For Children) - Book reviews of Picasso and the Girl with a Ponytail: An Art History Book For Kids (Homeschool Supplies, Classroom Materials) (Anholt's Artists Books For Children)

'Picasso and the Girl with a Ponytail: An Art History Book For Kids (Homeschool Supplies, Classroom Materials) (Anholt's Artists Books For Children)' book reviews

Review for'Picasso and the Girl with a Ponytail: An Art History Book For Kids (Homeschool Supplies, Classroom Materials) (Anholt's Artists Books For Children)'

"Picasso and the Girl with a Ponytail: An Art History Book For Kids" by Laurence Anholt is a captivating and educational addition to the Anholt's Artists Books For Children series. This beautifully illustrated book offers young readers a unique glimpse into the life and work of one of the most influential artists of the 20th century, Pablo Picasso. Designed as an art history resource for homeschool supplies and classroom materials, the book successfully combines storytelling with historical context to engage and inspire young minds.

The narrative centers around Sylvette, a young girl who becomes one of Picasso's muses. Set in the spring of 1954, the story is based on the real-life encounters between Picasso and Sylvette David, who was just 19 years old at the time. Through Sylvette's eyes, readers are introduced to Picasso's studio, his eccentric personality, and his groundbreaking artistic style. This approach makes the complex world of modern art more accessible and relatable to children.

Anholt's writing is both engaging and informative. He skillfully weaves factual information about Picasso's life and artistic techniques into the storyline, making it easy for young readers to absorb. The book doesn't shy away from the more challenging aspects of Picasso's character, portraying him as both a genius and a flawed human being. This balanced portrayal encourages children to think critically about the complexities of historical figures.

The illustrations in "Picasso and the Girl with a Ponytail" are a standout feature. Anholt's vibrant and expressive artwork captures the essence of Picasso's style while maintaining a child-friendly appeal. The use of color and form in the illustrations not only complements the text but also serves as an introduction to some of the artistic principles that Picasso is known for. Young readers will find themselves drawn to the visual elements of the book, which enhance their understanding of the narrative.

One of the book's strengths is its ability to inspire creativity in young readers. By showing how Sylvette's interactions with Picasso influenced her own artistic journey, the story encourages children to explore their own creative potential. The book also includes a helpful glossary of art terms and a brief biography of Picasso, providing additional educational value for readers and educators alike.

"Picasso and the Girl with a Ponytail" is an excellent resource for parents, teachers, and homeschoolers looking to introduce children to art history. The book's combination of engaging storytelling, beautiful illustrations, and educational content makes it a valuable addition to any child's library. Laurence Anholt has once again succeeded in making art history accessible and enjoyable for young readers, fostering a love for art that will hopefully last a lifetime.

Similar BooksMore