Little Mouse's Painting - Hardcover

Diane Wolkstein, an internationally renowed and beloved storyteller, enchants both children and adults with her favorite folktales in riveting live performances, acclaimed recordings, and picture books. Little Mouse's Painting, one of Diane's original tales, addresses two of her loves: art and friendship (and how they sometimes collide!). Diane is the author of twenty-one award-winning books, including the ALA Notable Books The Magic Orange Tree and White Wave. She lives in New York City. For more information on Diane's books and appearances, visit www.dianewolkstein.com. Maryjane Begin began her illustrating career as a student at the Rhode Island School of Design. Her award-winning portfolio includes such children's picture books as The Porcupine Mouse, A Mouse Told His Mother, and Before I Go to Sleep. Her work has been featured in Communication Arts magazine and The Society of Illustrators Annual of American Illustration. When not teaching at RISD or painting, Maryjane may be found reading bedtime stories to her husband and children in Providence, Rhode Island.

Kindergarten-Grade 2-- Even though this sweet picture book seems, on first reading, to be devoid of complexity or any real action, a second, more thoughtful perusal uncovers unexpected charm. Little Mouse, a sociable yet independent sort, enjoys visiting with her friends Bear, Squirrel, and Porcupine, and shares different activities and interests with each. One day she devotes her time instead to painting on her own. When the picture is done, Little Mouse proudly shows it off; the animals see themselves in it. She is initially frustrated with their interpretations, insisting that the blueberry bush, flower, and sun do not bear resemblance to them. Later, however, when she hangs the picture, she realizes that their visions have some merit and she is pleased to have them nearby, in spirit and in pigment, if not in fact. Wolkstein's expressive, straight- forward narrative and Begin's beautiful, luminous watercolor and acrylic illustrations combine to produce an appealing, insightful look at friendship and creativity. The exquisite artwork; subtle characterization; and simple, thoughtful story add up to a satisfying whole. --Lisa Dennis, The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh
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