Three for Thursday July 29, 2010

If pressed to name one illustrator of children’s books as my favorite, I would answer – Barbara McClintock.  While I admire and enjoy the work of many wonderful artists, McClintock’s illustrations are one of my greatest joys.  Her detailed ink and watercolor drawings have an old-fashioned feel.  When looking at them, I feel nostalgiac for an era I know only through reading and movies. McClintock’s drawings are so detailed that I’m always finding small touches I hadn’t noticed on a previous look. 

Her books have won numerous awards, including four New York Times Book Review Best Illustrated Books and a Boston Globe/Horn Book Honor award.  She is perhaps best known for her collaborations with author Jim Aylesworth.  Together, they have produced six picture books, including several retellings of classic stories. 

If you are unfamiliar with McClintock’s work, here are three books I would recommend.  Of course, if not for the rules governing “Three” for Thursday, I would suggest all of her books:

Adele & Simon (Adele and her young brother pass familiar Parisan landmarks during their walk home from school.  If a trip to Paris with children is in your future, you’ll want to own a copy of this book.)

Adele & Simon in America  (Adele and Simon on another adventure – this time on a train ride across the United States. Ditto above advice – but substitute a trip across the country.)

Our Abe Lincoln by Jim Aylesworth (Publisher’s Weekly’s starred review begins: “Proving once again that they are a match made in picture-book heaven, Aylesworth and McClintock turn out a biography of Lincoln virtually guaranteed to hook readers.”)

Three More Days… September 27, 2009

Three more days until there is a new book illustrated by Barbara McClintock.  This one is called The Mitten, and it is the sixth collaboration between McClintock and writer Jim Aylesworth.  I’ve already ordered a copy—sight unseen.  There’s no question that I’ll love it because I love everything she does.

McClintock’s style is distinctive; once you know it, her books can be spotted across the room.  Her illustrations are detailed, old-fashioned, and cozy.   She makes me want to leap into the pages and live in one of her idealistic scenes.

Look at the opening spread in Mary and the Mouse, the Mouse and Mary.  Notice the top window on the left and the bottom window on the right.  It’s those little whimsical touches that make me love McClintock’s work.   As others have pointed out, McClintock’s illustrations are reminiscent of British illustrator Randolph Caldecott’s work.  In my view, it is well past time for her to win the prestigious award which bears his name.