Messenger, Norman. An Artist’s Alphabet.

Messenger, Norman.  An Artist’s Alphabet.  Candlewick Press  2016  unp.  $17.99  ISBN 978-0-7636-8123-4       all ages  Misc.             E-BN

Each letter of the alphabet is beautifully rendered by master illustrator Norman Messenger.  This book is nothing less than exquisite! Each letter of the alphabet is beautifully drawn, using as design elements everything from caterpillars to tools, rope to lizards, and buildings to shellfish. Each letter drawing, both upper and lower case, uses muted colors with what appears to be a wash. While this book is certain to engage the youngest of book lovers, it would also be an excellent gift or coffee-table book. It can also be a useful resource for art students.                    

Summary: Each letter of the alphabet is beautifully rendered by master illustrator Norman Messenger. 

Alphabet books                                                                                                          —Lynn Fisher

Strother, Ruth. B is For Blue Planet

Strother, Ruth.    B is For Blue Planet     

Sleeping Bear Press(Cengage)  2011  unp  16.95 978-1-58536-454-1 ms                E-BN   

Most alphabet books are 

designed for the youngest of children.  This remarkable one crosses many age

groups.  Arranged in traditional order, each letter is highlighted by a brief

poem, a fascinating illustration, and used to explain much more interesting

information than normally found.    Most alphabet books are designed for the

youngest of children.  This remarkable one crosses many age groups.  Arranged in traditional order, each letter is highlighted by a brief poem, a fascinating

illustration, and used to explain much more interesting information than

normally found.  “B” is used to describe our Blue Planet and tells the reader

about the reasons that it is called thus and also provides information about

different bodies of water.   Each letter brings into focus many of the diverse

geological treasures and ecological mysteries that are found on the Earth.  The

alphabet is perfectly illustrated for younger readers and the information given

is well suited to older one and is sure to lead them into further reading and

research.         Ogintz, Susan