Customer Reviews

Leonardo: Beautiful Dreamer

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

There could hardly be a more fascinating or beautiful way to introduce young readers to a man who is arguably one of the greatest geniuses the world has ever known, Leonardo da Vinci. As an artist in the field of children's book illustrations, Mr. Byrd has few peers. As an author, deft at reaching young minds, he is an expert.

From da Vinci's birth throughout his remarkable life readers are allowed to trace his accomplishments. Much of this data is gleaned from da Vinci's personal notes which are still available today. We learn of his childhood fascination with flying, and his observation of a kite, a bird that glides apparently without effort.

It seems that from boyhood onward he took great delight in nature and its study. In his early teens da Vinci joined his father in Florence where he would spend a dozen years in Verrochio's workshop. He learned much from the renowned sculptor.

From Florence he traveled to Milan where he enjoyed the patronage of a wealthy duke, and was asked to paint the Last Supper. His fame spread. Today, some 500 years after his death, philosophers and artists from throughout the world continue to look to this amazing genius.

Author's notes, and a timeline are included.

- Gail Cooke

This story is beautifully illustrated and told. Lots of interesting facts about the man, his life and his work. My 8 year old daughter is enjoying it. The language level and some of the concepts are a bit too difficult for my 5 year old, but the pictures have captured her interest.

There is so much information in this book. There are long chunks of text, and fascinating drawings and blurbs throughout. The illustrations are filled with quotes from Leonardo.

Includes a notes section, an excellent time line, and a bibliography. This is a book for an interesting child.

We bought this book for a reasearch project for my 9-year old. We both loved the book and the illustrations. He even drew the Leonardo pictured on the cover for his cover page. Very informative.

I really enjoyed reading this book. I think the author did a wonderful job making this book a fun one to read. His illustrations though cartoons and caricature are very neat. I read few other books on Leonardo besides that and I could see that Robert Byrd packed a lot of information in this thin book.It will appeal not only to children but to any age. If you are being introduced to Leonardo for the first time make sure you start with this one, if you already know about him you will appreciate the author for doing a fine work in telling his story in so few pages. It could also be a wonderful gift to somebody.

Not only does this book capture the primary events in this great man's life, it also reveals many of his hopes, dreams, and personality. Robert Byrd has created a visual feast with delightful "nooks and crannies" packed with fascinating tidbits. A sheer delight!

nice, crisp review and fun with the most famous of inventors and artists. 8 yr old entranced by di vinci and this is one of several instructionally-pleasant reads.

What a great book and so fun. The artwork and presentation are so appealing. Teacher-Librarian