Cousins, Lucy. Create with Maisy. Lucy Cousins, Illus. Non-fic. Candlewick, 2012. [48]p. $16.99. 978-0-7636-6122-9. OUTSTANDING. GRADES TODDLER-KINDERGARTEN.
Maisy fans and crafty kids alike will adore this book. Cousin’s loose and naïve gouache cartoons pair wonderfully with glossy high-resolution photographs to introduce 17 accessible but satisfying art projects. All can be done with easily obtainable materials by following simple step-by-step instructions. Throughout the book, a cast of well-loved characters offer encouragement and tips; “Maisy uses her prints as wrapping paper” and “Charlie likes Mr. Eggplant.” A valuable resource for parents, teachers, and librarians wanting to share hands-on activities with preschoolers, it encourages the spirit of creativity and gift-giving and can be used by children working alone or in groups.
Celia Jackson, Oakland PL