Ralph Masiello (1)

A fun book with step-by-step illustrations of how to draw several different robots each done with a different medium, from computer design to pastels. Also included are examples of different lines, shapes, and techniques that can be used. Very helpful book for my elementary school-aged reluctant artist.

Too bad about the title, used for marketing but actually reinforcing that bugs & similar critters are icky. The information is very introductory, and the note at the end about bugs vs. insects etc. is very concise. The paintings are wonderful.

I am interested in more by Pallotta, particularly two different garden/ vegetable titles, and [b:The Spice Alphabet Book: Herbs, Spices, and Other Natural Flavors|9778893|The Spice Alphabet Book Herbs, Spices, and Other Natural Flavors|Jerry show more Pallotta|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1328037404l/9778893._SX50_.jpg|2403011] aka the Yummy Alphabet Book.

I do recommend this to families who homeschool and do enrichment. show less

I remember when I first came upon this author and it was since of my elementary school. We had an assembly where the author was invited and ever since he told me there was a Julia butterfly I have been hooked with him.

The book writing is simple, large letters and easy for any child to read, especially with very young beginners. Furthermore each letter is covered even if the author has to be creative such as in this case where he uses Cotton Stainer for the X on the back of its carapace.

The show more other thing that will catch the reader's attention is the beautiful detailed artwork and the interactive reading style that asks the reader to answer a question, what they should do and/or mentioning something basic such as unfinished letter so you don't know that you are learning as you read.

What gave an extra bonus to me is that the author uses the last page to mention the little known fact that the book isn't really about bugs but insects and arachnids while describing the actual term of bug plus which of the ones mentioned were true bugs.

Definitely a literary gem! show less

L used this book to draw some startlingly realistic (if dragons were real) dragons.

Map, author's note, many different types of dragons (e.g. Aboriginal rainbow serpent, ouroboros, mushussu, Maya celestial dragon, fafnir, wyrm, wyvern, cockatrice, makara, naga, Chinese imperial dragon). Step-by-step instructions and examples, with special instructions for details (e.g. scales).