When Hazel was young, we discovered beautiful books by and illustrated by Jerry Pinkney. I remember the year Hazel received The Lion & the Mouse by him for her birthday. She was so excited as it was one of her favorite books ever! He also illustrated The Talking Eggs which is a Black American Cinderella story. Today I get to share a new picture book released this week by his granddaughter! She shares a bit of her own story growing up with her famous grandfather. The book is Two Artists, Grandad and Me by Charnelle Pinkney Barlow. It is recommended for ages 3 to 7.
About the Book:
A young girl spends a magical day in her grandad's painting studio, discovering the joy of art, music, and the special bond they share. By the granddaughter of legendary Caldecott Medal-winning children's book illustrator Jerry Pinkney.Step into the warm, jazz-filled world of a young girl and her artist grandad, as she learns about her grandad's paintings and discovers the joy of creating her own art.
In this inspiring story, a very young painter learns there is no right way to be an artist, and that every brushstroke and every sketch is a unique expression of her imagination. With Grandad's gentle guidance, she draws, dreams, and lets her creativity flow, filling the studio with memories and masterpieces. As the day fades, the young artist realizes that time spent with Grandad is a treasure to carry in her heart forever.
Based on her memories of time with her grandfather—beloved children's book creator Jerry Pinkney—Charnelle Pinkney Barlow's beautifully illustrated picture book will inspire young readers to embrace their creative spirit and cherish the moments shared with loved ones. An afterword by Charnelle Pinkney Barlow details the special relationship she and her grandad shared and the creative inspiration she derived from his love and guidance.
From Me:
In this sweet story Charnelle shares a memory of a magical day visiting her grandad's studio. She begins with walking in and hearing jazz music playing upstairs and when she arrives in his studio he has some of beautifully illustrated books out for her read as well as a big smile and hug for her. She shares some of the magic of his studio with the reader as well as how he encouraged her and taught her to be a painter. He considered her an artist right away and taught her to think of herself as one. It is a sweet story about the relationship between a grandfather and granddaughter. It reminds us how grandparents play such an important role in our lives.
Can you imagine walking into Jerry Pinkney's studio? And having him greet you with a smile and a hug? Oh, and the books and projects he would have around the studio. He shared projects from the beginning to end with her. What a magical place it must have been. He left out some of his recently published books or new projects for her to look at as well as some of his old favorites. He created so many beautiful picture books from old tales like The Lion and the Mouse or The Tortoise and the Hare. I imagine his studio being every young child's dream. Her story telling is beautiful as is her artwork. She is able to show her work as if it was done by a younger her as well. It is wonderful.
This book is perfect for Black History Month, as well as any story time. It shares the love between a grandparent and child and emphasizes the importance of this relationship. It is the perfect book for a gift or for a classroom.
