Bemelmans

Edward Sorel

If there were moments when Bemelmans had self-doubts or was less than a loving husband or jolly father, the reader will not find them here. The text is decidedly upbeat, and the art, of course, sublimely so....Like a banquet at the old Ritz-Carlton, this book is irresistible.
— New York Times Book Review

VOYA - Voya Reviews

This profusely illustrated title, with excerpts from some of the books and private journals of the author/illustrator of the children's classic, is a visual delight and fun to read. A willful and disobedient child, Austrian-born Ludwig Bemelmans at age sixteen was given a choice--go to a correctional institution or go to America. Soon looking for work in New York City, the talented young artist recorded his impressions with the whimsical sketches and lively prose that would later captivate millions of readers. Bemelmans joined the staff of a top Manhattan hotel, where he sharpened his gift for cartooning by sketching hotel guests. Although Bemelmans became a prolific writer of novels, magazine articles, and short stories, his love of children and respect for their natural intelligence directed his career toward children's books. During a trip to France with his wife and daughter in the late 1930s, his character, Madeline, the precocious red-haired troublesome child who lives in a convent, was born. Although some critics considered it too sophisticated for children because of its untraditional format, the Caldecott Honor book was a huge success and continues to charm readers of all ages the world over. His grandson Marciano sheds light on the multitalented man's fascinating life and career, with insights into Bemelmans's meticulous research methods and some of his candid reflections on the process of writing. Brilliant and fun-loving, Bemelmans never lost the ability to delight in the unexpected or rejoice in the wonders of nature, embracing life as an exciting adventure and sharing these wonderful, childlike qualities in his work. At this price, however, this title is a marginal purchaseat best for young adult collections. Index. Illus. Photos. Source Notes. Chronology. VOYA CODES: 4Q 4P M J S (Better than most, marred only by occasional lapses; Broad general YA appeal; Middle School, defined as grades 6 to 8; Junior High, defined as grades 7 to 9; Senior High, defined as grades 10 to 12). 1999, Penguin, Ages 12 to 18, 151p, $40. Reviewer: Delia A. Culberson

Library Journal

This delightful biography reveals the talents and larger-than-life personality of a remarkable writer and artist. In addition to his children's books, Bemelmans wrote short stories and novels for adults and created comic strips, painted murals, illustrated magazines, and designed sets and costumes. Marciano provides a lucid chronological framework for the life story of his "insatiably curious" grandfather, from his early years and failed schooling in Europe to his later work as an accomplished and celebrated artist. The final section describes the wonderfully circuitous process of creating a "Madeline" book and includes Bemelmans's poignant last sketches. Interspersed throughout are his personal letters and excerpts from both published work and private journals. Reproductions of Bemelmans's art include photographs, sketches, doodles, and paintings. Text and images merge seamlessly in this visually gorgeous work.-Mary Ann Carcich, Suffolk County Community College Library, Riverhead, NY Copyright 1999 Cahners Business Information.