Art and Max by David Wiesner

Looking for a marvelous picture book? Look no further!                                                 

David Wiesner, three-time Caldecott award winner for Tuesday, The Thee Pigs and Flotsum, once again delights children with his picture book, Art and Max. 

“…a thought-provoking exploration of the creative process...Funny, clever, full of revelations to those who look carefully this title represents picture-book making at its best.” —School Library Journal, starred review

The book tells the story of two lizard friends who both enjoy painting. Art is an old pro; Max is just a beginner. When Max misunderstands Art's instruction to "paint him," chaos ensues. Max starts to actually paint his friend! Furious, Art's painted scales then crack off, revealing pastel dust. After the colored pastels blow away, Art is filled in with water colors, which run after he drinks some water. Finally, all that is left of Art is a line drawing. As Art stomps off in a huff, Max grabs his friend, undoing the drawing until he is just a mess of scribbles on the floor. Luckily, Max is able to "reconstruct" his friend, and make him even better than before!

Recommended for ages 4-8, children will love the bright colors, full page spreads, stunning detail and easy to follow story. It would make a good discussion book in the classroom for the topics of art and different media,  the importance of trying new things and friendship. This is the perfect book to share before starting a new art project in the classroom and teachers or parents may like to include computer work by including the online activity, found here, in their lesson.

A video of David Wiesner talking about his book.

I loved looking through and reading this book, and have no doubt that you will enjoy reading and sharing this book just as much. So what are you waiting for...

Happy Reading!