From School Library Journal
Kindergarten-Grade 2-First published in 1983, this book has new illustrations but retains the message of the original-that sometimes one's first inspiration is the best. Asked to submit a painting for an art show, Sara experiences "artist's block" and becomes overwhelmed by vast possibilities and the eager advice of her family. Perhaps painting the entire universe on a single sheet of paper is not such an easy plan of action. Procrastination creates greater obstacles; eating two butter-and-jelly sandwiches, three chocolate-covered graham crackers, and a pretzel makes a nice diversion, but doesn't complete an original masterpiece. The need for independence in personal decisions and creativity comes across loud and clear as Sara's mother reminds her to "begin at the beginning...the universe is only people like you and me…." Appropriately simple pen-and-ink and watercolor illustrations frame Sara's world. This gentle, supportive message for young art students or weekend doodlers is suitable for all libraries.
-Mary Elam, Forman Elementary School, Plano, TX Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
PreS-Gr. 2. Sara is overwhelmed when her teacher asks her to paint a picture for the school art fair: "She said she knew I could do something
wonderful," she wails. Her original subject idea--a favorite tree--doesn't seem important enough. She fortifies herself with snacks, cleans her desk, readies her art supplies, and prepares to paint "everything! . . . The universe!" Paralyzed by the enormity of her task, she agonizes until her mother gently helps her see that "the universe is only people like you and me, and your desk and this room, and those houses . . . " and Sara returns to her original inspiration--the tree outside her window. Schwartz's watercolor-and-pencil drawings, which show Sara's creative imaginings as well as her cozy reality, extend the spot-on emotions in the smooth, well-paced text. Most children will easily connect with Sara's preproject jitters, her procrastination tactics, and finally her joy when she finally dips her brush in color and starts to paint. Suggest Peter Reynolds'
The Dot (2003) for another picture book about overcoming creative blocks.
Gillian EngbergCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved
