46 months - I wasn't sure if O would like or appreciate this book but she did. We will have to explore more artists soon. ( )

In my opinion, this is a great biographical book on Claude Monet for two reasons: the language and the illustrations. The language in this story is very descriptive, and creates vivid images for readers. Early elementary students through middle school could effortlessly and clearly follow along. For example, Monet is not only great at painting, but also painting with words: "Winter sunlight pours through the sparkling morning mist, and a gaggle of children wait for me anxious to carry my half-finished painting." The illustrations in the book also caught my attention and left a mark after I finished reading. Monet captures the feeling or "impression" of scenes rather than replicating exactness. The style of the illustrations enhance the story, and gives readers examples of how an impressionist style painting look. The brush strokes are quick, soft, and ruffled with bold, bright colors. Monet describes an afternoon painting on the beach, watching the waves: "Quickly I ruffled my paintbrush against the canvas as jade waters ruffle against the shores edge." The biography of Claude Monet inspires readers of all age groups to appreciate his love for natural beauty, and his ability to capture such wondrous motif's on a canvas. ( )

Really beautiful introduction to Monet for kids. ( )

A story based on one of Monet's seaside painting expeditions offers readers an insightful introudction to the artist. Includes author's note and bibliography. ( )

A day in the life of Impressionism painter Claude Monet is told through a combination of letters, first-person narration, factual notes and gorgeous illustrations. This picture book offers a unique approach to typical biography by focusing on just one day in November 1885 when Monet was visiting the seaside town of Manneporte. Beginning with Monet setting out to paint for the day, the first-person, present-tense narrative mixes insights into Monet’s painting rituals and beliefs with a gently paced story that builds to an unexpected climax when Monet is swept into the sea. Additional facts footnote most pages, and while informative, the switch to a third-person, past-tense voice for these facts does interrupt the flow the story. The illustrations, on the other hand, are a perfect complement to Monet’s narrative. Reflecting the loose, pastel watercolors of Monet himself, these illustrations capture many of the stylistic elements mentioned in the text and help readers to envision the artistic concepts. End matter includes an author’s note offering more information about Monet’s life and career, an appendix describing Monet’s painting techniques and a bibliography. Recommended for readers age 6 to 9. ( )