Claude

PreS-Gr 3–This tale of creation and the ­power of play will delight readers. A young artist approaches her easel with the inspiration of Claude Monet’s painting Poppy Field Near Vetheuil firmly fixed in her mind. Her adorable puppy has other ideas. Despite his best efforts to lure her away from her ­creation, the puppy resorts to more energetic play until disaster strikes, and paint and paw prints are everywhere. Upon reflection, the friends have not ruined the creation; they have found that it is unexpectedly complete. Illustrations feature black outlines of the girl and the puppy on a crisp white ­background, with the only color her red beret as well as the paints and painting in progress. Energy and emotion leap off the page, and readers will feel her frustration in the creative process as well as the puppy’s desire for fun. The ­final joint project is an absolute joy to ­behold.