I thought this work would be exquisite, and it truly is. Katherine Paterson has reimagined the text of Saint Francis of Assisi's hymn of praise, "Canticle of the Creatures." Paired with Pamela Dalton's traditional German/Swiss scissor cuts, the picture book has a symmetrical balance of amazing beauty. The language is just as rich as the detailed watercolored paper cuts set against black backgrounds. Both reverberate truth with elegant simplicity.
"We praise you for our Brother Sun,
who in his radiant dawning
every day reminds us that it was
you who brought forth light."
Publishers Weekly noted the absence of a multicultural cast. I find the depiction of people in keeping and faithful to the heritage of the art form.
The sentiments within Brother Son, Sister Moon are immense and moving in their truths. This work should garner awards and a distinct position on bookshelves. Introduce greatness to your totz through this picture book. Bravo, Handprint Books!
Brother Sun, Sister Moon
Saint Francis of Assisi's "Canticle of the Creatures"
reimagined by Katherine Paterson
illustrated by Pamela Dalton
Handprint Books, Chronicle Books, 2011
I was lucky enough to see original art from this book at the IRA conference...gorgeous!
ReplyDeleteThe art in this book does look superb. Wonder if my kids would enjoy reading the text, though?
ReplyDeleteHow cool, Loreen!
ReplyDeleteGood question, Brimful. I think so as the rhythms are so comforting and smooth. Give it a try!
What a lovely cover! I like the black.
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