Cool Painting: the Art of Creativity for Kids! by Anders Hanson

Cool Painting: the Art of Creativity for Kids! by Anders Hanson
(Grade 2 and up)

At our library, this year's summer reading theme is Be Creative At Your Library. So far, our patrons have found hundreds of ways to be creative including nature walks, drawing classes, music lessons and much more. The inspirational Checkerboard How-To Series is new to our library and includes the books: Cool Painting, Cool Drawing, Cool Sculpture, and Cool Collage: the Art of Creativity for Kids! Today I will review Cool Painting, a book packed full of information in an extremely easy-to-read, encouraging format.

Author Anders Hanson begins with a pep talk of sorts to boost young artists as they discover their own brand of creative talent. He moves on to a colorful explanation of the tools of the trade, elements, color theory, composition and techniques. Next, Hanson introduces six projects, each more complex than the last. Readers begin with a simple free paint and move ahead to more difficult projects, all including manageable steps and plenty of support. The entire series is a fabulous jumping-off point for any young artist (and older ones too!). The great photographs on each page are simply the cherry on top.

To find this or other books in this series, visit www.newberglibrary.org

Reviewed by Amanda L., Children's Staff