Read the art appreciation book reviews to find resources for a natural and wonderful way to learn about art along with your child.

Art Appreciation Books

Art Appreciation Books

apprenticePainter's Cat
The story is set in Renaissance Italy in Venice. Micio is a stray cat who is adopted by an artist. But Micio is under the impression that he is no longer loved by his owner as he is always painting. The illustrations represent Venetian life wonderfully and the story line is endearing as the cat find his way into one of his master’s masterpieces.

Linnea in Monet's Garden 
It is one of those books which will be loved by all ages through the ages. The reader travels along with young Linnea and her neighbor, Mr. Bloom, first to Paris and then Giverny to see the painter Monet's home and gardens. The story is provided with words and excellent illustrations. This will help you feel standing on one of the bridges viewing the water lilies in person. It will be a special treat to read this book and reminisce for those readers who have had the opportunity to see Giverny and the gardens in person. And for those who haven't been there and read this book, certainly it will provide a marvelous travel destination in the future.

  Camille and the Sunflowers 
Get acquainted with well written and illustrated story about a young boy who meets Vincent Van Gogh and befriends him. It is based on the true events. The author made it suitable even for small children, and inspires them to learn more about his life and works. The book can be used for homeschooled kindergartner and preschooler. It can become a great starting point for further learning and discussions.

Series
This series will be helpful for those moms who feel totally out of their depth with art appreciation because they may not be aware of many things in this field. These books have a picture on one side of a double page spread and thought provoking questions and a little about the artist on the other. Each book includes a theme rather than a specific artist.
•  Exploring Landscape Art with Children
•  Animals in Art
•  World of Play
•  Enjoying art with children

camille_and_sunflowersThe Apprentice by Pilar Molina Llorente
A mystery story filled with intrigue about a young boy who is apprenticed to an art master. He finds a young man in the attic and the ensuing discoveries are fascinating. The story is set during the Renaissance.

The Journeyman by Elizabeth Yates
A story based on the journeyman painters of New England who traveled the country and did detailed stenciling in rooms of peoples homes. This book is much more than a book about art, it traces the pleasure of a misunderstood child as he becomes a young man and wins his childhood sweetheart.

Eyewitness Guides
For older children, Dorling Kindersley has a wonderful range of Eyewitness guides including topics such as perspective in art, Van Gogh, Renaissance Art, Monet etc.