Companion to American Children's Picture Books - Hardcover

"[A]n invaluable reference to any who would collect or learn about these shorter books for kids, as well as picture books intended for young adults and older kids." - MBR Bookwatch "[T]his Companion is a worthwhile addition to most school and public library collections." - Booklist/Reference Books Bulletin "Kirk begins with an infomative introduction that covers the definition, history, and specific parts, and methods of evaluating picture books. the main body of the work consists of over 400 alphabetically arranged entries providing information on authors, illustrators, various awards, and definitions of terms as they relate to the picture book....There is a lot of good information here." - School Library Journal "This reference work contains approximately 400 entries on notable American picture books, important picture book authors and illustrators, artistic terms and techniques, and relevant awards." - Children's Literature Association Quarterly "Some 400 alphabetical entries provide information on authors, artists, works, and general topics related to the creation, study, and use of American picture books for children. Selected titles were intended to give a good cross-section of critically acclaimed and popular books as well as works of historical and scholarly interest. They include fiction, poetry, biographies, and some concept works, such as alphabets. Author Kirk writes for an audience of readers, librarians, educators, scholars, editors, authors, and artists." - Art Book News Annual

With advances in printing technology, the American children's picture book has evolved into a distinct and special art form. This reference thoroughly overviews the rich and fascinating world of American children's picture books. Included are more than 400 alphabetically arranged entries on authors, illustrators, works, and such specialized topics as the Caldecott Medal, linoleum cuts, pastels, and printing technology. The entries for works provide publication information, plot summaries, interesting anecdotes, and other information. The volume closes with a bibliography and numerous appendices. With advances in printing technology, the American children's picture book has evolved into a distinct and special art form. These books are treasured by children, collectors, and librarians and are also attracting growing amounts of scholarly interest. This reference thoroughly chronicles the rich and fascinating world of American children's picture books. It focuses on the shorter books for younger children as well as the more recent picture book formats geared toward older children and even young adults. Included are more than 400 alphabetically arranged entries on authors, illustrators, works, and such special topics as the Caldecott Medal, linoleum cuts, pastels, and printing technology. The entries on works include basic publication information, plot summaries, characters, awards, and interesting facts. In addition, these entries conveniently list Library of Congress subject headings related to the book. The volume closes with a bibliography and numerous appendices.