Monet and the Impressionists for Kids: Their Lives and Ideas, 21 Activities

Grade 5-10-A beautifully designed introduction to Impressionism featuring chapters on artists associated with this movement. All of the individuals included (Claude Monet, Pierre Auguste Renoir, Edgar Degas, Mary Cassatt, Paul Cezanne, Paul Gauguin, Georges Seurat) showed their works at one or more of the Impressionist exhibitions of the 1870s and 1880s; consequently, the book includes some Post-Impressionists, but excludes others such as Vincent van Gogh. The chapters devoted to the artists will be especially useful to report writers. They contain both biographical information and discussions of the work. Sidebars relate anecdotes and quotes, discuss images, and mention other important individuals in the art world. Sabbeth also includes 21 appealing extension activities such as recipes, crafts, games, and writing suggestions. Quality color reproductions on glossy pages, and varied, attractive layouts add to the book. Unfortunately the "for kids" of the title is a bit off target; the text is written at a fairly high level and the primary audience will be those who no longer see themselves as children. Nonetheless, this is a worthy addition to the art shelves.
Robin L. Gibson, Perry County District Library, New Lexington, OH