Raphael

Children's Literature

Venezia has another hit in the popular series "Getting to Know the World's Greatest Artists." Raphael is a painter whose works are easy to understand and leave the viewer amazed by their extraordinary light and ethereal beauty. A contemporary of da Vinci and Michelangelo, Raphael combined their styles with his own, probably surpassing them both with his sheer artistry, according to the author. The occasional cartoon commentaries about interesting points will grab the most reluctant reader, so this series continues to be highly recommended as a beginning introduction to famous artists. It is loaded with beautiful reproductions of paintings, is very readable and comes in a sturdy reinforced binding. 2001, Children's Press/Grolier, $22.50 and $6.95. Ages 6 to 9. Reviewer: Judy Chernak