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The Book of Mistakes
The Book of Mistakes
By Corinna Luyken
Approx. Grade Level: PreK-3
Lexile: 520L
Fountas and Pinnell: K
Summary:
As a young artist incorporates accidental splotches, spots, and misshapen things into her art, she transforms her piece in quirky and unexpected ways, taking readers on a journey through her process. Told in minimal, playful text, this story shows readers that even the biggest “mistakes” can be the source of the brightest ideas—and that, at the end of the day, we are all works in progress, too. The funny, poignant, completely unique storytelling encourages readers to have a positive outlook as they learn to face life’s obstacles.
A striking debut picture book that celebrates the creative process.
Illustration Style: Ink and watercolor
"I've always loved working with ink and watercolor. I enjoy how fluid they are — and also how hard they are to control. I love the way watercolor blooms and shifts and can have a life of its own on the paper.” —Corinna Luyken
Author and Illustrator Background:
Corinna Luyken is the author-illustrator of The Book of Mistakes, which received four starred reviews and has been praised by Entertainment Weekly, the Wall Street Journal, NPR, and more. She also illustrated Adrian Simcox Does Not Have a Horse, written by Marcy Campbell. And is the author-illustrator of the forthcoming My Heart, as well as four other upcoming illustrative projects. She attended Middlebury College in Vermont and lives in Olympia, WA with her husband, daughter, and two cats.
"Almost every time I draw, I make a mistake. Often the mistakes are small, but even then they require an adjustment. First, in my head, then on paper.” —Corinna Luyken
Links to:
NYT Books Presents: Live Art with Corinna Luyken - A reading of the book by the author from 2:45 - 5:25, live ink, pencil and watercolor art and interview 5:45 - 33:00 (click image on right)
Additional reading of Adrian Simcox Does Not Have a Horse (illustrated by Luyken) or Luyken's new My Heart
Art activities for each of Luyken's book from the publisher: The Book of Mistakes (1), (2), My Heart and Adrian Simcox (1), (2), (3).
7 Impossible Things blog post about Luyken's path to illustration and inspirations, and Design of a Picture Book blog post, both with drafts of her work.
Book connection: Read Anthony Browne's The Little Bear Book and Frida and Bear Play the Shape Game! about creating something from nothing or a strange shape (could make a collaborative game from it.)
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