Redoute: The Man Who Painted Flowers [Hardcover]

Carolyn Croll (Author)

Book Description

Age Level: 8 and up

An introduction to an artist who has been called the most accomplished flower painter follows his small-village, underprivileged youth and his services under Queen Marie Antoinette and the Empress Josephine.

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

Like its subject, this imaginative study of the "Raphael of Flowers" operates within a small but inspired range. Her orderly yet lush watercolor scenes of the French artist's life (1759-1840) handsomely complement the personality of the hero, who managed a long and brilliant career as a botanical painter despite numerous political and personal upheavals. In her artfully understated text Croll (The Little Snowgirl) traces the historical background, also touching on matters of technique and Redoute's problems with money. She thus adds crucial balance to a life story remarkably blessed with luck as well as talent. Indeed, the theme of perseverance and its rewards permeates this book, as notables Marie-Antoinette, Napoleon and Josephine, and a buckskin-suited John James Audubon pay tribute to the artist and his work. In its gentle sensitivity and careful attention to detail, Croll's book reflects Redoute's own credo: one does best what one loves most, however humble the pursuit. Ages 5-up.
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From School Library Journal

Grade 3-5?A charming picture-book biography that includes a good dose of French history as well. Croll creates an exciting tale, following Redoute from his Belgian childhood, to Paris during the revolution, to the deathbed of Empress Josephine. However, the fictionalized feelings and dialogue are jarring, and the narrative flow is marred when the story moves abruptly from Redoute's first success to his sudden marriage. French words and names will challenge some readers despite the glossary and pronunciation guide. The design is appealing and effective, although the book's appearance seems a bit young for those who will be able to read it independently. Short text blocks are placed below half-page vignettes that face full-page illustrations. Richly colored and detailed, the well-placed drawings capture the action and drama of the story with stylized figures in period dress. Flowers find their way into Croll's work, including her own rendition of Redoute's paintings. Unfortunately, to see the real thing, readers must look elsewhere. This quick and interesting book is a good choice for libraries in which interest in art is high.?Paula A. Kiely, Milwaukee Public Library, WI
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 8 and up
  
• Hardcover: 32 pages
• Publisher: Putnam Juvenile (March 1, 1996)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0399226060
• ISBN-13: 978-0399226069
• Product Dimensions: 10.1 x 8 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.5 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #898,922 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

To learn more about Carolyn Croll, visit her blog:

http://cateatsbananasandflies.blogspot.com/

and her Etsy shop:

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5219055

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars French flower painter extraordinaire, December 4, 1999

By 

Lori (Philadelphia, PA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Redoute: The Man Who Painted Flowers (Hardcover)

Carolyn Croll's beautifully illustrated book on Redoute is a delight for children and adults alike. Strongly recommended for children interested in art, history and nature.

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Redoute the man who painted flowers, March 9, 2005

A Kid's Review

This review is from: Redoute: The Man Who Painted Flowers (Hardcover)

Pierre-Joseph Redoute is considered the most famous flower painter in the world. This book is a true story about him and his life as a flower painter. The pictures in this book really bring the book to life, along with being cute and funny. I loved this book I learned alot of stuff I didnt know about Pierre-Joseph Redaoute