Native Artists of Europe

School Library Journal

Gr 5-9-Readers are introduced to a singer from Ireland, a painter from the Basque country, a musician from Switzerland, a potter from Hungary, and a wood carver from northern Sweden (Sapmi). There are direct quotations; some bits of Moore's connective commentary; and many clear, small, full-color photographs (usually two per page) showing typical scenery and the artists at work or with family members. The artists' quoted remarks are straightforward and informative, but the author's comments tend to be overlarded with gushy phrases and poor grammar such as ``This gift of vision and creation are at the heart of all artistic expression.'' The page design is attractive, with considerable white space decorated with animal symbols associated with the geographical region. Unfortunately, each chapter ends with a page devoted to a grossly stereotypical activity that detracts from the useful information offered in the body of the book.-Kenneth Marantz, Art Education Department, Ohio State University, Columbus