Through the Looking Glass Children's Book Reviews
123 I can paint
Nonfiction Art Book
For ages 4 to 7
Kids Can Press, 2007 ISBN: 978-1554530373
Most of us know what painting is – you use paints to create a picture. In this book, we are going to learn how to paint "places" using a variety of materials and tools. The author begins by showing her readers what materials they are going to need. This includes liquid paints, containers to mix paints, craft paper, and sponges. The first project she creates is an ocean scene. By mixing different paint colors just a little, we can make our water look more interesting and realistic. Add a few fish, some bubbles, and some seaweed and you will have a work of art.
Other scenes that the author helps us to create are a "bird's-eye view" of fields, a field of flowers, a cityscape, the moon rising over mountains, and a night sky full of fireworks. Then, the author shows young artists how they can use the techniques that they have learned to create a "whole wide world."
This is one of the titles in a terrific series about drawing, painting, collage, and more. Bouncy, lively, and easy-to-follow directions make this book very accessible for young artists. At the same time, the techniques explored are so interesting that older artists may be tempted to try a picture of two.
