A Christmas Drawing Wonderland!

November 1, 2013
Grades 2-5 Even kids who don't think they can draw will get into the swing of things when Christmas is the inspiration. And what could be easier than starting with round ornaments and candy canes? Even a Christmas tree doesn't seem like that much of a stretch with step-by-step triangles that turn into a Christmas tree. Although this slim volume doesn't give as much instruction as some drawing books, the oversize finished products give children a good idea about the way the snowman, elf, or reindeer should look, while at the same time leaving room for imaginations to roam. A bit of back matter directs kids to more.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2013, American Library Association.)

July 1, 2014
These festive drawing primers suggest holiday-themed pictures for kids to try. The brief texts, each introducing nine subjects, strain for cleverness ("Stories say a curse brings mummies to life. But a pencil and your imagination can bring one to life too"), but the directions are cleanly written (though not always the easiest to follow) and step-by-step illustrations are clear. Reading list.

(Copyright 2014 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)