Product Description

Taking a lively, original approach, Alexander Sturgis's narrative explores the message of 12 masterpieces. Teamed with the equally original illustrations of Lauren Child, this makes a fun and highly enjoyable introduction to a fascinating subject. When young Dan finds himself locked inside a museum after closing hours, he discovers a world of art he'd never dreamed possible. An angel steps out of a painting and takes him on an exploratory tour of the great masterpieces - explaining the symbolism of each painting. For the first time, Dan begins to understand the messages of paintings and the stories behind them. It's not long before he too is speaking their language.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #46638 in Books
• Published on: 2003-05-01
• Format: Illustrated
• Original language: English
• Binding: Paperback
• 40 pages

Families South East, May 2002
'[a] wordy, witty and informative tale of a trip with one of Fra Angelico's angels around an art gallery'

In Sainsburys - The Magazine, June 02
'A fabulous introduction to art..Fascinating, entertaining and accessible, it teaches children how to 'decode' the language of art'

Bookseller Back to School, June 02
'Altogether a view of art that is quirky, stimulating and fun'

Customer Reviews

Excellent introduction to art interpretation
I work with children and particularly enjoy introducing them to fine art. This is one of the best books I have found on the subject. Quirky, likeable illustrations by the inimitable Lauren Child combine with reproductions of famous artworks. A large range of styles and time periods are represented, and the language used is spot on. Quite a lot of text, so probably most suitable for ages from 5 upwards. This is simply a brilliant tool for stimulating interest in art and encouraging thinking skills, too.

art detective with a light touch and a sure eye!
I bought this for my grandson who is football mad, and we read it at bedtime with enormous pleasure and many, many repeats. He was 4 1/2 when we first tried it, and there was no "hard sell", just shared delight. the illustrations are clear and compelling; the links are just the right length to keep interest, yet give information; and that varies from picture to picture, with enough action to make it terrific fun for both of us! Oh and I should say he is now 6 and loves the book just as much!