Michelangelo Buonarotti

Children's Literature

Part of the "Life and Work of" series about artists for early readers, this offering gives the basic facts for introducing young ones to Michelangelo before they're ready for the more complex presentation of Diane Stanley's book about the artist. Selections of sculptures and pieces of his Sistine Chapel painting are shown next to illustrations of his life. The type is suitably large with an attached glossary to explain more complex words set in bold. The back matter also includes a timeline and index. The quality of the reproductions utilized is good, although it is amusing to note that Michelangelo's David is carefully presented only from the waist up. 2001, Heinemann Library, $21.36. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Kathleen Karr

School Library Journal

Gr 1-3-Highlights of the lives and careers of two Renaissance masters. Two to three lines of text on each page accompany a bright, full-color reproduction, drawing, or photograph. Unfortunately, the texts are oversimplified and the reproductions, while good, are not titled or attributed (even the credits on the verso of the title page don't give full citations). Titles in Joy Richardson's "How to Look at Art" series (Gareth Stevens) are better choices for introducing children to art and individual artists.-Robin L. Gibson, Perry County District Library, New Lexington, OH Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.