Emily's Blue Period
For young Emily, who is learning about Pablo Picasso in school, the painter’s work is a perfect metaphor for what is happening in her life. His mixed-up, abstract paintings echo her life outside of school, because her dad has moved out. As for Picasso’s Blue Period? Emily’s in a blue period, too. Picasso’s work in collage inspires a breakthrough, however, as Emily begins bringing the disparate parts of her life in two homes together in an art project that symbolizes her new, expansive understanding of what “home” can be. Cathleen Daly’s picture book is so much more than clever, although it’s certainly that. It’s emotionally rich and resonant, capturing with humor, warmth and honesty a family navigating a difficult transition. Lisa Brown’s illustrations perfectly echo the shifting emotional landscapes of the story. ©2014 Cooperative Children's Book Center
Illustrated by Lisa Brown
CCBC Age Recommendation: Ages 4-8
Age Range:
PreK-Early Elementary (Ages 4-7)
Grades 3-5 (Ages 8-10)
Format:
Picture book
Subjects:
Art and Artists
Change
Divorce
Families
Feelings/Emotions
Hope and Healing
Separation
Publishers:
Neal Porter Books, Roaring Brook
Publish Year: 2014
Pages: 55
ISBN: 9781596434691
CCBC Location: Picture Book, Daly