Customer Reviews:
Restoration of Paintings.......2006-02-09
As a private restorer/conservator I view this book as a good ffee table format overview of easel painting . This book must not be used as a guide for would be restorers Please on't attempt to repair your antique painting using this book as your basis of knowledge.
The subject of painting conservation is very complicated as well as controversial. Methodology and materials are revised as we learn the effects of past treatments and current research. This is a good book to get a better idea as to the rather complicated set of factors involved in painting restoration and will give a greater appreciation to the general public of the craft . This is in no way a how to guide and will not take the place of more formalized training.
A thorough introduction.......2005-07-28
Rather technical, with many lovely color illustrations of the subject and techniques. This is a shwank reference for all manner of questions about restoration and reconstruction of paintings. You could learn much just from the pictures and captions.
The text itself is top-notch. Explanations are clear and complete. A wealth of footnotes and bibliography.
A very informative overview.......2001-06-21
I read this book when I was applying for a graduate program in the restoration of easel paintings. I needed to get a broad--but also reasonably in-depth--overview of types of damage to paintings and restoration and preservation techniques, and this book was great for that. It thoroughly covers all types of damage to paintings on panel and fabric support, along with corrective and preventive techniques. As I mentioned before, it covers a whole range of areas while still giving them sufficiently in-depth attention. There are tons of color illustrations that are invaluable in helping you understand what they're talking about. I didn't rate it five stars for two reasons: (1) it frequently describes the use of specialized equipment used by restorers, and if you're not familiar with this equipment it can be kind of difficult to completely follow what they're describing, and (2) it also doesn't have the most up-to-date information. Not that the information that is there is out of date by any means, but if you're interested in cutting-edge restoration theory, this book is not going to have it. But from what I gather, this book is one of the most highly regarded in the restoration field (the faculty of the program I applied to keeps it on-hand as a reference book).
Also, be warned--if you're looking for information on wall paintings, this is not going to have it. It just covers panel paintings.
An excellent and detailed text on painting conservation.......2000-05-26
This is an excellent overall and very detailed view of the conservation of paintings. Actually it is one of the most thorough and up to date books on the subject I have ever seen. Very well written and documented with many photographs and an extensive bibliography and many notes for further research. This book clearly shows the skills, knowledge, and expertise needed and in use today by professional conservators around the world and it could easily be used as a complete reference book for those interested in the subject or even as a textbook for anyone studying art conservation.
Amazon.com
Any good reader has, well, had it with novels of healing. The culture of confession has given rise to novels that begin with an unspeakable act (graphically described) and end in redemption (this part is usually more vague). That's not how it works in J.L. Carr's quiet, brief, dreamy A Month in the Country. Writing in 1978, Carr's narrator, Tom Birkin, recalls the summer of 1920. A veteran of the Great War and a cuckold, Tom arrives in Oxgodby to restore a medieval mural in the church. His single season in this town in the north of England passes quickly: he sleeps in the belfry, makes a friend or two, falls secretly in love with the vicar's wife, and, chipping away at plaster and dirt, uncovers a lost masterpiece. These events seem to melt past Tom in the heat of the perfect, fleeting English summer: "The front gardens of cottages were crammed with marjoram and roses, marguerites, sweet William, at night heavy with the scent of stocks. The Vale was heavy with leaves, motionless in the early morning, black caves of shadow in the midday heat, blurring the sound of trains hammering north and south."
Carr devotes many fewer words to Tom's time in the war. The vicar's wife tries to ask him about it. "'What about hell on earth?' she said. I told her I'd seen it and lived there and that, mercifully, they usually left an exit open." His healing consists of not talking about his past--perhaps a revolutionary notion these days. A Month in the Country, with its paean to a lost, good place, oddly recalls Alain-Fournier's Le Grand Meaulnes. But where that novel was elliptical, Carr's work values clarity and simplicity above all. These are rare enough qualities, but to find them in a novel of romance and healing is a rarer pleasure still. --Claire Dederer
Book Description
In J. L. Carr's deeply charged poetic novel, Tom Birkin, a veteran of the Great War and a broken marriage, arrives in the remote Yorkshire village of Oxgodby where he is to restore a recently discovered medieval mural in the local church. Living in the bell tower, surrounded by the resplendent countryside of high summer, and laboring each day to uncover an anonymous painter's depiction of the apocalypse, Birkin finds that he himself has been restored to a new, and hopeful, attachment to life. But summer ends, and with the work done, Birkin must leave. Now, long after, as he reflects on the passage of time and the power of art, he finds in his memories some consolation for all that has been lost.
Customer Reviews:
A man's troubled soul is unlocked by an ancient painting .......2007-04-26
If you have seen the movie you will love the book.If you have read the book then you will love the movie.1920 England has slowly climbed out of the Great War and many are still finding their way in the aftermath of it all.Tom Birkin is an art restorationist who is called to the North English town of Oxgodby in order to uncover a 500 year old painting in the the nave of the village Church.There he is met with the most unusual likeable and unlikeable characters who are there to help,hinder or confuse Birkin during the hot summer months as he tirelessly and obsessively works to reveal a Judgment Scene that will play as the key to unlock his troubled heart and soul.J.L Carr's book is extremely intimate and personal,told more from the thoughts and observations of Birkin than dialogue from supporting characters.The 1987 film version is incredibly accurate and is extremely good in bringing out the subtleties of the book.I highly recommend both.
Tender, nostaligic, haunting.......2006-03-26
The main theme of this charming novel is how important it is to understand the irretrievable passage of time and to savor the good times that come along. The narrator tells the story of an enchanted summer he spent in Cornwall uncovering an ancient painting in a country church. He looks back upon this time (1920) as one of the most wonderful, important periods of his life. He meets several villagers who make an indelible impression upon him and pleas with us to appreciate our own little "months in the country"--those days when things are going well. Such a good, kind, fully-alive character. I was moist-eyed by the final pages (it's a very short novel) and didn't want it to end. Sweet, powerful, and as lovely as a summer day in the country.
enchanting.......2005-10-22
This is one of those works of art that falls into a category of its own. Carr's writing is impeccable and it took on a magical quality where the past and future were perfectly brought together through the voice of the protagonist Tom Birkin. I'm on my fourth reading of it.
Lyrical, poetic escape.......2005-05-24
When I was reading this book I often felt as if i was either there or the author was telling the story directly to me. My only objection is that it was too short!
We Are Creatures Of Hope, Always Ready To Be Deceived Again.......2005-05-04
J. L. Carr's A Month In The Country (1980), which is set in the 1920s, is the story of Tom Birkin, a budding restorer who accepts a job uncovering a church mural in a small Yorkshire village, a village predictably populated by greenhorns, cranks, and eccentrics of all stripes and colors. What is immediately apparent is that the novel is not a product of the earlier era in which it is set, nor is it an attempt to recreate the style of the period.
Though Carr attempts high British humor in the grand 20th century tradition of P. G. Wodehouse, Evelyn Waugh, Ivy Compton-Burnett, Stevie Smith, Denton Welch, and Muriel Spark, much of what is supposed to be funny throughout the novel is in fact only obvious, smug, and not nearly as intelligent or crisp as Carr apparently believes it to be. Thus, when Birkin's employer warns him about a scythe that hangs in the outdoor privy, Birkin speculates whether "it was the loss of life or only manhood he was concerned about," and most of the attempted humor continues at about this level.
A Month In The Country might have been saved by a compelling plot or theme, or simply a collection of perceptive insights uniquely expressed, but none of these elements are present, and so what little story there is merely plods cutely along. Whether is it is Carr himself, or merely Tom Birkin, who is so self-satisfied is difficult to say; either way, the combination of the anemic first person narrative and the idiosyncratic attempts at humor, in which the author indulges himself at every turn, sink the book quickly.
Average customer rating:
- An excellent book.
- A treasure!
- Stunning artistry, breathtaking color...
- Excellent Reproductions and very good text -- Truly Majestic
- Wow! Next best thing to being there!
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Michelangelo: The Vatican Frescoes
Pierluigi De Vecchi , and
Gianluigi Colalucci
Manufacturer: Abbeville Press
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Binding: Hardcover
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Italian Frescoes: The Flowering of the Renaissance 1470-1510
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Italian Frescoes: High Renaissance and Mannerism 1510-1600
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Michelangelo : The Complete Sculpture, Painting, Architecture
ASIN: 0789201429 |
Amazon.com
The restoration of Michelangelo's magnificent frescoes in the Vatican's Sistine Chapel stirred up much controversy and debate among scholars, art historians, and art lovers alike. Originally painted in the late 15th century, it took restorers 14 painstaking years (from 1981 to 1995) to remove the centuries' worth of dust and decay that had obscured the frescoes' brilliant colors and intricate designs. In 250 gorgeous full-color photographs, this unique and beautiful volume presents Michelangelo's restored chapel--perhaps the greatest masterpiece of Renaissance art--in its entirety, from the Creation to the Last Judgment, both before and after cleaning. The only definitive study of the restoration process, this book is the next best thing to actually being there.
Book Description
The restoration of Michelangelo's magnificent frescoes in the Vatican's Sistine Chapel is perhaps the most controversial event in the art world in the past three decades. Now, after nearly fifteen years of effort, the restoration is finally complete. This unique volume-the first to document the project-is the result of an unparalleled international photographic campaign. For the first time, the restored Chapel is shown in its entirety, from the Creation to the Last Judgment. Glorious, full-color photographs-250 in all-portray the frescoes both before and after their restoration, providing an unforgettable view of the meticulous work that many believe restored the frescoes to their original High Renaissance splendor.
Originally created in the late 1400s, the frescoes of the Sistine Chapel are the best-known of all the Vatican masterpieces. As early as 1502, however, tourists began noting the damage wrought by smoke and crumbling walls. By 1980 the need for conservation appeared to be dire. The restoration team had to contend with centuries of decay-structural fractures in the walls and ceilings, soot and dust accumulation, and rainwater seepage that left white patches on every surface. Artisans in previous centuries had made attempts at conservation, but often did more harm than good; the frescoes were found to be coated with many layers of "protective" glue that had yellowed and darkened with age.
Though many art historians opposed the restoration, believing that Michelangelo was a somber artist who worked in dark and muted colors, the endeavor presents frescoes that are gloriously vivid, setting the chapel aglow with their brilliance. In addition, they provide new insights about Michelangelo's brushstroke techniques, and add more information to a centuries-old debate over how he worked with the wet plaster surface of the frescoes.
Written with Gianluigi Colalucci, the technical overseer of the restoration, the text provides an intimate understanding of this masterpiece of Renaissance art. It explains the various forensic studies carried out in the course of the project, the pragmatic concerns of the restoration, and the many problems of historical approach that were confronted. This volume, including remarkable new pictures of the Chapel frescoes, belongs in the libraries of every art historian and student of the Italian Renaissance.
Customer Reviews:
An excellent book........2007-01-14
The image quality in this book is excellent. I have never been to Vatican. So it's hard to judge whether the color is right. I just try to use this book to study anatomy after Michelangelo. For some parts of frescoes, this book provides enlarged pictures. Some images show the frescoes before restoration, although not in detail. In general, it's a great reference book for my study.
A treasure!.......2004-08-06
Being an admirer of the magnificent Michelangelo I am very pleased to have acquired this book. The pictures are beautifully printed. By the end of the book I wish to revisit the Sistine Chapel to view those parts printed in the book which I have obviously missed with my naked eyes. The details of the restoration work is an added bonus. To get the most of this book, please read it together with "Michelangelo and the Pope's Ceiling" by Ross King. You will not regret the experience. Michelangelo's frescoes are simply sublime!
Stunning artistry, breathtaking color..........2003-04-11
The photographs in this book are too good to be believed. I have never had an art book on the Sistine Chapel before that so moved me.
It was obviously produced with great care -- the colors look perfect, the focus is perfect. I can't rave about this book enough. And so complete! You will know every nook and cranny of the Chapel when you finish this book.
Well worth more than what you pay for it.
Excellent Reproductions and very good text -- Truly Majestic.......2001-01-08
This is an absolutely superb book, largely because the reproductions of the frescoes are excellent and really capture the colors that you see when you visit the Chapel. I have found many art books disappointing, because they simply fail to capture the works they present. I first saw this book in an American bookstore after visiting the Sistine Chapel, and really thrilled to see if after looking at several other books where colors were much duller and the images simply not as sharp. In addition to its fine colors, the book provides many fine closeups of each individual section. The text is also very good, describing the subjects of the painting, the history behind the paintings, ansd also the recent restorstion. This is a must-have book!
Wow! Next best thing to being there!.......1999-05-19
For those that want a closer look at the Vatican Frescoes, this is as good as it gets. This book shows Michelangelo's work in their newly restored splendor. It is scarcely imaginable that one man could have created such beauty. It surely reminds us of what we are all capable of reaching.
Book Description
Conservation of Stained Glass in America is "... a 225 page warehouse of information on professional [stained glass] restoration and conservation," said Joe Porcelli in PSG's Glass Artist, April/May 1995. Used as a textbook in glass conservation and restoration courses, it's also the standard text on the subject for serious glass artists, craftspeople, and for those who are responsible for glass in public and private buildings throughout the United States.
Book Description
Revive Your Ride is based on popular columns by the author in Auto Restorer® magazine, the premier publication for die-hard restoration enthusiasts.
Customer Reviews:
Finally a great body shop how to book!.......2007-08-26
Larry Lyles writes a really concise,clear book of how to revive and old tired car body. I have a freind that followed his steps exactly, and the car keeps winning shows. While it doesn't teach how to weld or any of that, a book can't possibly do that well, his book does get through the refinishing steps to achieve a great end point. Well worth the less than $20 price!!!
Professional Quality Techniques.......2006-09-24
REVIVE YOUR RIDE: SECRETS FROM A BODY AND PAINT RESTORATION PRO packs in everything needed to set up the perfect auto restoration shop, from tools and paints to developing professional-quality refinishing techniques. This comes from an auto body professional who knows all the tricks, right down to restoring nameplates and badges. From best paints to use for particular jobs to methods, REVIVE YOUR RIDE comes packed with color photos throughout.
Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch
The item of choice for any restoration pro.......2006-07-21
Owners of old cars who want to try a quality restoration and paint job must have REVIVE YOUR RIDE: SECRETS FROM A BODY AND PAINT RESTORATION PRO. Details range from setting up a perfect shop and finding good tools to repairing damage, painting and refinishing a vehicle from bare metal to finished result, and restoring nameplates, badges and more. Pages for notes, color photos of processes, and tips for applications and surface treatment selection provide the latest in techniques, while sidebars of detail are easy on the eye. REVIVE YOUR RIDE is the item of choice for any restoration pro.
Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch
The ultimate guide to auto restoration........2006-06-29
After buying and reading the author's book "Project Charger" I figured this book would be just as good.It is.This book goes into greater detail of restoration techniques that can be applied to any auto restoration project.
This book is a detailed book of restoration techniques,setting up your workshop at home and a guide to spray painting.This book is suitable for restoring any vehicle.Its the techniques that are what this book is all about.And,the book is in colour throughout.There is so much advice here.This book exceeded my expectations.
I highly recommend the author's other book:
"Project Charger".(ISBN:1-931933-22-X)
You should purchase both books together.They are great books and great value.The books are of very high quality.No matter what vehicle you are restoring these books are the best.The book "Revive your ride",has 160 pages not 256 pages.I also recommend you purchase the appropriate workshop manual for your vehicle too.
Average customer rating:
- A RARE BOOK...FOR THE SERIOUS ARTIST
- Great book
- Still life paintings from the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam.
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Still Lifes: Techniques and Style : An Examination of Paintings from the Rijksmuseum
Rijksmuseum (Netherlands)
Manufacturer: B.V. Waanders Uitgeverji
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
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ASIN: 9040093679 |
Customer Reviews:
A RARE BOOK...FOR THE SERIOUS ARTIST.......2006-03-16
The book Still Lifes: Techniques and Style : An Examination of Paintings from the Rijksmuseum is a fabulous book. As a professional artist who is a serious still life painter, this book answers many questions on techniques used. If you understand the techniques and principles of this style of painting, you will have to have this book in your personal library. A must have for the serious still life painter.
William Yenkevich at www.wmystudio.com
Great book.......2003-11-06
This is one of my favourite books, although the title is a bit misleading. I saw the word 'techniques' in the title and thought 'hey great - a book that's going to give me some of the techniques of the old dutch masters'. Hmmmm. All I can say is; if you thought that as well, don't get your hopes too high.
This is a great book - beautiful illustrations (although only 17 paintings are covered so it's not an extensive collection of works), clear text and nicely presented. However it strikes me as being written more from the perspective of an art curator or researcher then an artist (like so many art books written these days on the 'greats' of the past). Thus it misses out on a lot of information that would be of interest to the painter and gives very few actual 'how to' details. To me too, the majority of the technical information seems to be stating what can already be seen in the close ups, or revolving around scientific analysis of pigment samples. The dead colouring, whether a portion of the painting was done wet in wet or in layers and what pigments were used, seems to be the only technical information really covered.
However this is still a great book - I totally recommend it. Overall, it has to be the most helpful still life painting book I own to date,(mostly because of the closeups and the quality of the paintings). So I would say, get it if you love old masters still lifes, it's worth it.
Still life paintings from the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam........2000-04-02
This beautiful book is an intensive and visually enchanting examination of nineteen flower and still life masterpieces from museums around the world. This book was written in conjuction with the show presented at the Rijksmuseum, June through September of l999. Art lovers, artists, scholars, conservators and laymen will enjoy this journey back to the seventeenth and eighteen-century workshops of such artistic giants as Jan Brueghel, Jan Davidsz de Heem, Rachel Ruysch, Jan Van Huysum and more. Historical backgrounds of fifteen painters are featured along with technical information on supports (canvas, wood or copper), imprimaturas, under drawings, mediums, and paints. Beautiful color plates, artistic techniques, and scientific knowledge are shared.
Paintings by Jan van Huysum are examined through mmicroscopic analysis, made possible by the Molart Project. Such scientific examination tells us the chemical and physical condition of Huysum's paintings, and the methods he used to paint his beautiful still lifes. Such scientific examinations offers us a great amount of information that can be applied to artistic instruction, preservation or just good reading.
Book Description
This ultimate restoration and repair reference has all the answers to restorer's questions! The Collector Car Restoration Bible delivers authoritative instructions and more than 500 how-to color photos to help restorers avoid costly errors and complete restoration goals.
In this guide, restorers are led through various tasks of specific systems and processes that apply to any car, such as engine rebuilding, brake work and bodywork. In addition, this reference includes new procedures based on engine disassembly and assembly, and tips to caring for a completely restored car. From installing clutches to body refinishing this comprehensive resource delivers the details to transform ancient to excellent.
-500+ intricate color photos and illustrations guide restorers in various repair work
-Techniques for restoring any model of old car provide restorers with versatility
-A guide of recommended tools helps restorers of all experience levels to do the job
Average customer rating:
- More than meets the sky
- Another great book!
- Newer is not always better!
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The Little Skyscraper
Manufacturer: Price Stern Sloan
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
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ASIN: 0843176776
Release Date: 2001-10-01 |
Book Description
The little skyscraper didn't always seem so little. At one glorious time he was the tallest and most impressive building in the entire city. People traveled from near and far to take in the view from his observation deck and pass the time in his pretty little park. But as time passed and the city grew and grew, people forgot about the little skyscraper. His bright, shiny spire became dull and tarnished, and his beautiful park was turned into a parking lot. Then, just when his own future looked darkest, the little skyscraper learns that he hadn't been forgotten. And all it took was the determination of an old friend to change the minds of an entire city.
Customer Reviews:
More than meets the sky.......2004-07-04
As a volunteer reader at a children's shelter, I purchased this book for many reasons.
First, the illustrations. The very talented Mr. Santoro knows his audience. The children wanted to look long and hard at the pictures. Each turn of the page was met with "oohs," "aahs" and "cooools" from my young audience.
Second was the storyline of the skyscraper watching the changes of the surrounding territory and what those changes meant to the skyscraper.
The third reason (and deciding factor) was the storyline of the little boy who was inspired by the skyscraper and followed his dream.
After reading this story to the children I ask the questions, "What changes in your environment have changed you?" and (my favorite) "What in your life inspires you the way the skyscraper inspired the little boy?" The answers make for a lengthy and inspired session. I wish I could describe the looks on the kid's faces as they think about the questions.
However, here's a story of why I felt I must write a review of this book:
One day, after reading this book to the children, I packed my bookbag and headed for the door. Before I reached the exit, a child who rarely reacts to any book (or anything for that matter), stopped me and said, "You know, I actually liked that book. It was good." He turned around and walked away, following the other children into the area that is 'for residents only.' I stopped in my tracks and thought, "Now, THAT is a great review of a good book." You had to be there.
Another great book!.......2001-12-12
I already have scott's first book, "Isaac", and just got his newest book, the Little Skyscraper yesterday. This book is wonderful! The illustrations are captivating and colorful, story line is simple, and easy to follow. Children once again will love this book, as well as the parents. You'll cheer when Jack comes back and saves his old friend, the skyscraper. This book is one to put under your tree this year, and in your collection.
Newer is not always better!.......2001-11-25
In an age where technology is moving us ever-faster into the future, as well as the uncertainty that has been brought with war, people are turning more and more to the security and comfort of the past, of things closer to home, of memories that bring joy and peace to their hearts. The Little Skyscraper does exactly that. It conjures up images of a simpler society, simpler life where it was routine to help others, where character, integrity and hardwork were still the keys to success. Where the old was not destroyed by the new -- but where the value of both was seen and combined to make a better world. The Little Skyscraper learned he didn't have to be tall and ultra-modern to make an impression -- that the greatest gift he had and could offer was just to be himself. The easy-to-read text and wonderful illustrations present this valuable lesson in a way that will bring readers back to this book again and again!
Average customer rating:
- A beautiful story
- very touching!
- Angelo
- Lovely story, but a little sad at end
- Another Caldecott contender from Macaulay
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Angelo
David Macaulay
Manufacturer: Houghton Mifflin/Walter Lorraine Books
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Shortcut
ASIN: 061869336X |
Amazon.com
From the creator of The New Way Things Work, Castle, and Black and White, comes a poignant tale of a very curious friendship. Angelo is an old Italian craftsman who restores facades of Roman buildings. Sweeping away feathers and twigs left "by generations of thoughtless pigeons" one day, Angelo comes face to beak with his nemesis. This pigeon isn't looking so good, though, and in spite of himself, Angelo takes her home and brings her back to health, grumpily commenting, "Mamma mia! I restore walls, not pigeons." It's not long before this lonely old man grows attached to the bird, though, and makes a touching, lasting gesture to her in the final hours before his death.
David Macaulay's unusual story is funny and touching, if jarring at times, as when the narrative makes inexplicable leaps with no transition. He uses his familiar illustrative style to greatest effect in depicting the clutter of Roman rooftops and close-ups of crumbling walls and sculpture's toes. Also lovely are the images of twigs and feathers that frame the book, scattered even across the dedication and copyright pages. (Ages 6 to 8) --Emilie Coulter
Book Description
High above the rooftops of Rome, Angelo begins his work restoring the faade of a once glorious church. There, among the sticks and feathers, he discovers a wounded bird. Angelo becomes the bird's reluctant savior. As the church nears completion, Angelo begins to worry about the future of his avian friend. "What will become of you? Where will you go . . . where will you . . . live?" he asks her. Through his artistry as a master craftsman he answers the questions for his humble friend and assures that he, himself will not be forgotten.
Customer Reviews:
A beautiful story .......2007-07-20
I saw an exhibition of David Macaulay at the Hudson River Museum in Yonkers, NY, in July 2007 and was totally in awe of his talent. He is such a fantastic Illustrator and has a wonderful sense of humor. Until then I did not know anything about him, but after the exhibition I went to Amazon and bought 6 of his books. In addition to his brillant architecture/construction books like Castle, Mosque, Pyramid, and fascinating technical "how to" books ie. The New Way Things Work, he's also written some amazing stories for kids. This is one of them and I really love this one:
The story is about the friendship between old Angelo, who works on restoring the outside of an old church in Rome, and a pigeon, that he rescues. Angelo reluctantly warms up to the pigeon as he nurses her back to health. But soon he embraces and enjoys their one-of-a-kind and caring friendship as the pigeon, called Sylvia, decides to stays with Angelo. We accompany this unlikely couple for many months, through various seasons, as Angelo is finishing his work at the church. We witness cute and silly little scenes as Angelo plays the pigeon's favorite music and holds headphones to her ears during her convalescence, Sylvia and her pigeon friends dancing in front of Angelo during lunch to cheer him up. However, Angelo is becoming weaker and weaker and we feel with Sylvia as she shows great concern for his health and well being. Although Angelo eventually dies, the story ends on a happy note: the pigeon continues to live in a special nest that Angelo created for her out of stucco at the top of the church and David tells it with lots of humor and great sensitivity.
Beautifully illustrated, this story tells of enduring love. Simply heartwarming, touching, uplifting. A delight to read to your kids, but I bet, you yourself will want to read it again and again and again.
very touching!.......2007-06-09
A very touching story. It reminds me the words in Bible,"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.Love never fails."
It's an excellent storybook for readers of all ages!! I gave this book for my students to read and they loved it very much.
Angelo.......2007-03-08
Its such a simple sweet story--of the relationship of the old man and the pidgeon--still so old world in feeling and simplicity about a friendship!!! It made me shed a tear!!! Brenda Momente NYC
Lovely story, but a little sad at end.......2005-03-04
All of David Macaulay's books are wonderful, and this is no expection. One note of caution, though...I teach elementary school and read this book to a number of students. The story deals with death at the end, and this lead to some sad comments and discussion. Should be prepared to talk about death or loss of a loved one. This is would be a perfect book to deal with that topic.
Another Caldecott contender from Macaulay.......2002-06-22
Each day at work I have to read the new picturebooks that have been proccessed. I dislike few of them. I enjoy most of them. I love very few of them...especially on first perusal. "Angelo" is one of the very few.
It's the story of the unlikely friendship between a master plasterer (Angelo) and a pigeon he dubs Sylvia. He finds her wounded on the ledge of a building he is restoring & takes her in despite his negative opinions of birds. (The pigeon hospital bed he rigs up for her is wonderful). She flies off after convalescing...only to return when he needs companionship to see him to the end of his last great job. In thanks, he creates a tribute to her...a tribute only he could create & one only a pigeon could appreciate.
The story is heartwarming, but the pictures are silly, cinematic, and inspired. This is a treat to read (for young and old) and it is my pick (so far) for Caldecott 2002...
Customer Reviews:
beautiful, expressive figuratives........2002-12-01
Born in 1401 at San Giovanni Valdarno, Masaccio moved to Florence when he was 16, and by 19 was already becoming known for his painting.
His first surviving known painting, from 1422, the San Giovenale Triptych, is shown as a whole, and in detail. The harmony between the figures, and the glorious colors, make this a spectacular Madonna and Child, flanked on each side by two saints and an angel.
Masaccio worked with Masolino and Filippino Lippi on the frescoes from the Brancacci Chapel, and the work of all three artists is shown in this book.
My favorite piece is part of the Pisa Polyptych, the "Adoration of the Magi". The delicacy and loveliness of the composition, especially the expressive beauty of the four horses, make this a piece for all to admire and for art students to study.
There is an emotional intensity in his figuratives; in the "Expulsion from the Garden of Eden" one can see Adam and Eve's agony and shame on their faces, and his Jesus in "Tribute Money" is strong and manly.
Masaccio died at the young age of 27, in Rome, as he had just started the Santa Maria Magiore Polyptych; the fresco was finished by his former collaborator, Masolino, and is the final full sized plate in the book.
Well written and researched (with many quotes from Vasari) by Ornella Casazza, this 1997 edition, printed in Italy on thick, glossy paper, has 35 full sized richly colored plates, and many more smaller ones. Great for Masaccio fans, and lovers of this magnificent era of Italian art.
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