Brian Wildsmith, well-known illustrator of more than 30 picture books (including
Brian Wildsmith's ABC, for which he won the venerable Kate Greenaway Medal), has this to say about the traditional Easter legend: "It is the world's greatest story, burning with history, passion, and tragedy."
Wildsmith's own passion for the story of Jesus's crucifixion and resurrection is unmistakable in his glorious, metallic-gold-hued illustrations, which tell the story more vividly than words ever could. In fact, to his credit, Wildsmith adapts the story of Jesus's last days in as simple and straightforward a manner as possible, allowing young readers to glean the substance from the paintings, symbolism, and, most likely, discussion with grownups who may be reading along. The donkey's-eye-view of the events allows a slightly different perspective from the standard, without being overly intrusive as a literary device. Lush jewel tones capture the richness of the narrative, and mesh in a strangely beautiful way with the simple paintings of Jesus, the angels, Mary Magdalene, and others in the biblical cast of characters. The Easter Story will make a gorgeous addition to any Easter basket. (Ages 5 and older)
The story of Christ's entry in Jerusalem, his crucifixion and resurrection is touchingly and effectively told from the simple perspective of the donkey on which Jesus rides into Jerusalem. The text gracefully handles the crucifixion, which can be difficult for young children to understand, and strategically includes relevant Bible verses with which a child might be familiar. The memorable illustrations with their color washes and gold tones are far from standard fare. A 2000 Parents' Choice® Recommended winner.
Reviewed by Parents' Choice® 2000 -- From Parents' Choice®
About the Author
Brian Wildsmith was brought up in the mining village of Penistone, near Sheffield, England, and he attended the Slade School of Fine Art. Upon completing his studies, Brian made use of his love of music and skill as a pianist in the National Service, teaching music at the Royal School of Music. He became an art teacher after the National Service but soon gave up teaching to fulfill his true ambition, painting.
Brian began working with childrens books in the 1960s, designing book covers for Oxford University Press. There, he was asked to illustrate a book entitled ABC which received the Kate Greenaway Medal in 1962 and is now in its 19th American edition. He has since illustrated more than sixty books for children. Brian has earned a worldwide reputation as a children's book artist and believes that picture books are vitally important for developing a child's appreciation of beauty.
Brian Wildsmith currently resides in the South of France.
