In this fairy tale-like story a beloved tree is saved and children learn how architecture can co-exist with nature. The Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser believed that humanity and nature shared a harmonious partnership, a philosophy that he demonstrated with his architectural creations. Filled with color-saturated illustrations that echo Hundertwasser's bold style, this story introduces young readers to the idea of environmentally conscious and playful architecture.When construction starts on a new building in Lea's neighborhood, she fears that her favorite tree will be chopped down. For days she watches anxiously as the tree is covered up and surrounded by bricks. Finally, she learns that the tree has been spared and made the centerpiece of a fantastic new building, where it will live a long and healthy life.Lucie Vandevelde's joyful drawings convey a kid's-eye view of city life, complete with people, pets, automobiles, and machinery. As the new building emerges, readers
One of Paris's iconic symbols comes to life in this picture book that explores the tragic 2019 fire that destroyed parts of Notre Dame Cathedral as well as the heroic efforts to save the building and its valuable history. Gorgeous full-page illustrations take readers to the top of the cathedral, and into the studios of restoration artists, to tell a story of how Paris's famous rooster nearly perished and was brought back to life to keep watch over the city.From his perch atop a weathervane, the copper rooster enjoys one of the best views in Paris--even if the wind does blow him around a bit. But one fateful day a fire breaks out. Sirens sound, firefighters unroll their hoses, and the flames lick at his feathers. The rooster plunges to earth, crying out for his beloved partner Esmerelda. Gravely injured, he is discovered under the rubble by a worker who carefully lifts him out of the wreckage and brings him to a busy workroom. Will he be healed? Will he live to preside again over the
Painted during the artist's "golden period," Gustav Klimt's The Tree of Life has been interpreted in myriad ways. This children's book deftly incorporates the mysteries and depth of Klimt's masterpiec
Set in Casa Batllo, one of Antoni Gaudi's most renowned buildings, this joyful story introduces young readers to the architect's work, inciting their curiosity and imagination along the way. While her
In a small village in West Africa, a young girl explains the special way she was born. Her mother had difficulty getting pregnant, so she seeks help in the form of a doll which she treats like a human baby, carrying it on her back and covering it with kisses. Months go by and finally the woman's belly begins to grow! This beautiful story explores the Akua-Ba fertility figures of the Akan people of Ghana, while also depicting the deep love a mother has for her children.Elodie Nouhen's subtle, gorgeous illustrations combine collage and prints that are reminiscent of traditional African art, while remaining uniquely contemporary. Each spread communicates the look and feel of West Africa- the blazing yellow of the sun, the deep blue of the sky, the richly patterned textiles, and vibrant flora and fauna. Adrienne Yabouza's text echoes the rhythms of life in her homeland- the Central African Republic.The book closes with a short introduction to African art and the importance of fertility
Degas's ballerina paintings are well known and admired and his sculptural work Little Dancer Aged Fourteen-the only sculpture he exhibited in his lifetime-is particularly beloved for capturing the essence of a ballerina. This book tells the fictional story of a young girl who dreams of becoming a ballet dancer. Jeanne auditions at the Opera Garnier and moves with her mother, a laundress, to Montmartre where life becomes consumed by rehearsals and classes.One day she meets Mr. D, an artist who asks Jeanne to be his model. As Mr.D works on his sculpture, Jeanne prepares tirelessly for an important performance. The book culminates with Jeanne triumphing at the Opera-and Mr. D completing his sculpture with her help.Olivier Desvaux's gorgeous illustrations, which recall Degas paintings, bring readers into Jeanne's world-the studio where she spends her days, the tiny apartment where she sleeps with her mother, and Mr. D's atelier, where he preserves her story forever. Readers will learn
