To Be An Artist

Kindergarten-Grade 3--Like the authors' Back to School (2001) and To Be a Kid (1999, both Charlesbridge), this title is part of the SHAKTI for Children project, a nonprofit group dedicated to "teaching children to value diversity and to grow into productive, caring citizens of the world." Eye-catching spreads feature vivid photographs of youngsters from many different countries engaged in a variety of art forms, including dancing, singing, writing, and painting. The bold text introduces each discipline and is supported with more extensive descriptions of the individual endeavors and the nature of artistic expression in general. Bright, colorful backgrounds highlight the assortment of photos, and the open layout helps to pull the information together. This vibrant book pulsates with the energy and sense of accomplishment that accompanies participation in the arts. Within its pages, readers will find the inspiration to create, as well as the stimulation that comes from seeing reflections of the lives and creative works of other youngsters.--Tracy Karbel, Glenside Public Library District, Glendale Heights, IL
Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

Maya is also the co-author of To Be a Kid (Charlesbridge, 1999) and Extraordinary Girls (Charlesbridge, 1999), both brilliantly photographed books that present a picture of global diversity, tolerance, and joy. Maya's books are published in partnership with SHAKTI for Children, and a portion of the proceeds from the sales of her books go to support community-based educational projects for children around the world. It is the mission of SHAKTI for Children to teach children to value diversity and grow into productive, caring citizens of the world.

Maya currently lives in Washington D.C.

Author: John D. Ivanko

John is a regular contributor to the Global Fund for Children, a non-profit organization committed to teaching children to value diversity and grow into productive, caring citizens of the world through books and other outreach initiatives. He co-authored the award-winning book, To Be a Kid, (1999). The Global Fund for Children's flagship award-winning book, Children from Australia to Zimbabwe: A Photographic Journey Around the World (1998), includes several images from John's portfolio. His photography is also used in Extraordinary Girls (1999) and Let the Games Begin (2000). His work was donated to the Empower Nepal Foundation and the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix, the nation's largest all-volunteer organization.

John lives with his wife live on a farm and run a bed & breakfast called Inn Serendipity.