Mary Cassatt

“With large, crisply reproduced, color artwork on nearly every page, this picture-book biography . . . will appeal to a broad age-range.” —Booklist

Mary Cassatt knew from a young age that she wanted to make her living as an artist. She persuaded her parents to send her to the prestigious Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts at age fifteen, and by age twenty, she had moved abroad to begin her painting career. After several years of study and success, she found her rightful place among the Impressionists, becoming their first and only female American member.
Illustrated with Cassatt’s own work and that of other influential Impressionists, as well as photographs of the artist, this book offers children a glimpse at life during the late 1800s and showcases the colorful vivaciousness of Cassatt's work. Her beloved portraits of mothers and children are highlighted here, but the book also includes lesser-known work that shows Cassatt’s range of talent. Children will enjoy seeing the warm and loving images of others their age relaxing with pets, enjoying the outdoors, and being held by caring adults.

Inspiring for all children, but especially appropriate for those with artistic interests, this book shows how one girl's lifelong dream to become an artist came true due to an independent spirit, determination, and commitment to her craft.

“Attractive, clear, and useful to young students.” —Library Media Connection

“Through both words and art, this biography beautifully pictures the life of a talented and courageous woman.” —www.childrenslit.com

“Explores history and social context in an engaging manner that will connect readers—and their parents—to earlier times.” —The Bloomsbury Review