Bookverdict.com

Gr 2–5—This picture-book biography covers Matisse's entire life but focuses on his career aspirations and achievements. The straightforward text takes a lighthearted approach by including details such as young Henri's dream of becoming a magician and his skill with a peashooter. Berry's illustrations are the star of the show; dignified bl...Log In or Sign Up to Read More

This picture-book biography opens in a dreary French village where, compared to simple, hard-working villagers like his parents, Henri Matisse didn't "excel at much of anything -- except, perhaps, dreaming." This dreaming is brought vividly to life in illustrations that depict the village in black, white, and gray except for the electrifying pops of color that represent Henri's dreams. The text, too, mirrors the artist's emotional state, describing with glum language the mo...Log In or Sign Up to Read More