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A review by mat_tobin
The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds
4.0
As a teacher, it has always stumped me that when it comes to Art children are quick to say that they cannot do it and they start saying it when they’re very young. Whether it is because they cannot get down what they see in their mind’s eye with the skill that they want or whether they are told something which just switches them off from art, I do not know. Fear not though for Reynold’s little picturebook is here to help.
Vashti is frustrated by the idea that she has to do art in class. It’s beyond her and not something she and when the teacher encourages her to ‘just make a mark and see where it takes you’ – a lovely comment – she rebelliously just that. Her work, once signed, consists of a rather frustrated, flamboyant ‘dot’. The next morning though, Vashti is surprised and moved to find her framed and on display. Such a simple act inspires her to tap into the expressive side of her slumbering talent and we, over several spreads, enjoy watching this expression blossom and grow, quite literally.
Vashti learns then, that art is not about getting something right or perfect or caring about what others want to see, it is about expression and the spontaneity of the act of creation. As with all great books, its message is simple yet deftly done.
Vashti is frustrated by the idea that she has to do art in class. It’s beyond her and not something she and when the teacher encourages her to ‘just make a mark and see where it takes you’ – a lovely comment – she rebelliously just that. Her work, once signed, consists of a rather frustrated, flamboyant ‘dot’. The next morning though, Vashti is surprised and moved to find her framed and on display. Such a simple act inspires her to tap into the expressive side of her slumbering talent and we, over several spreads, enjoy watching this expression blossom and grow, quite literally.
Vashti learns then, that art is not about getting something right or perfect or caring about what others want to see, it is about expression and the spontaneity of the act of creation. As with all great books, its message is simple yet deftly done.