Tuesday, May 6, 2014

Non-fiction Biographies

       
  Sharing with Alyson Beecher's Non-Fiction Picture Book Wednesday here!  Tweet at #NFPB2014

       I don't have many non-fiction books to share, but found two more biographies to celebrate. Both are interesting people who show such passion in their chosen work. Read on...


When The Beat Was Born, DJ Kool Herc and the Creation of Hip Hop – written by Laban Carrick Hill and illustrated by Theodore Taylor III
               I’ve never heard of Kool Herc, and this story of how he became the DJ who started the dance parties in the Bronx, created the “break” between records by using two turntables, which became “break dancing” and hip-hop. You never know when something you love so much becomes what many others love, too. The illustrations are graphic and vibrant, like hip-hop! It’s a “Kool” biography!


Klimt and His Cat - written by Berenice Capatti and illustrated by Octavia Monaco

               This story and introduction to the secessionist artist, Klimt, is told by his cat, who takes us on a journey with the artist, both in his studio and on his travels. Klimt was not popular, but created some unusual works of art, now thought of as art to be admired. The story shows some of how he created, and where he found his ideas, emphasizing his persistence in his work. The illustrations are amazing, filling every page with vibrant color.


         What's next-I keep seeing more books about spring, gardening, animal behavior in spring, etc. Maybe that's one way to discover what's available.

12 comments:

  1. Artist biographies always seem to be fascinating. I love finding new picture books about them. And, yeah, I kind of like finding books that go well with the season or has some sort of theme.

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    1. There are some amazing bios available now. I like the theme ones, too, Earl. So many beautiful ones to read! Thank you!

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  2. When the Beat was Born looks like something kids can really relate to. Often the biographies they read are of people in places far removed from them. The illustrations look great too!

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    1. I think you're right, Gigi, the kids really would like this book, maybe could look him up on Youtube, too. Thanks!

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  3. I've seen a couple of people mention When the Beat Was Born. Will have to check that out! And thank you for the kind words yesterday as well :) Almost to the weekend! Hope it's a good few days!

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    1. You're welcome, Michele, meant every word. This book was very interesting. I had never heard of him, but those really into music would have, I'm sure. It was written & illustrated so well, too!

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  4. Wonderful! More to add to my PBB Pinterest Board! Looks like I have to do some serious research very soon for my NAGC presentation. :) Klimt and his Cat sounds like something that can be paired with the Julia Childs book and her cat. :)

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    1. That's a good idea, Myra. I found a book once and gave it to a student who was passionate about writing. Wish I could remember the exact title, but it was all about writers and their cats. The student had a cat, and claimed it was an inspiration. I wonder how many there are?

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  5. When the Beat was Born - love that I keep seeing this title! A sign I must find and read it. Have not heard of Klimt and his cat. Love how many wonderful picture book biographies there are out there.

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    1. There are many bios, I know, and I enjoy them a lot, know you do, too, Carrie. Thanks!

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  6. These sound like wonderful additions to a biography picturebook library, Linda. I love that there is such a variety of interesting people to read about these days - great fun for our kids!

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    1. I think we could make a long, long list of these bio picture books, couldn't we, Tara. Hope you find one of these fun for your class! Thanks!

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