Pictures Every Child Should Know A Selection of the World's Art Masterpieces for Young People   By: Mary Schell Hoke Bacon (1870-1934)

Pictures Every Child Should Know is a delightful compilation of the world's art masterpieces, carefully selected and explained for young readers by Mary Schell Hoke Bacon. This book serves as an excellent introduction to the world of art, allowing children to explore and appreciate various artistic styles, periods, and techniques.

Bacon's writing style is engaging and accessible, making it easy for children to understand and enjoy. Each artwork is accompanied by a concise yet informative description, providing valuable context and insights into the artist's intentions. The book features a wide array of paintings, sculptures, and other art forms from different cultures and eras, ensuring a diverse and enriching experience for young readers.

One of the book's standout features is its high-quality reproductions of the artworks. The colorful and vibrant images capture the essence and beauty of the original pieces, allowing children to truly appreciate the mastery of the artists. These visual representations not only enhance the reading experience but also serve as a valuable learning tool, allowing children to observe and analyze the techniques and details of each artwork.

Another commendable aspect of Pictures Every Child Should Know is its thoughtful selection of artworks. Bacon has curated a diverse collection that comprises renowned masterpieces while also including lesser-known gems. This approach ensures that children are exposed to a wide range of artistic styles and movements, fostering a well-rounded understanding of art history.

Furthermore, the book does an exceptional job of encouraging children to develop their own interpretations and opinions about the artworks. Bacon prompts readers to consider various elements such as color, composition, and subject matter, nurturing their critical thinking skills and creative expression. This interactive approach allows children to actively engage with the art, fostering a lifelong love and appreciation for the visual arts.

The only slight drawback of Pictures Every Child Should Know is its brevity. While the book covers a reasonable number of artworks, some readers may find themselves wishing for a more extensive collection. However, it is important to remember that this book serves as an introduction, sparking curiosity and inspiring further exploration into the vast world of art.

In conclusion, Pictures Every Child Should Know by Mary Schell Hoke Bacon is a well-crafted and educational resource that succeeds in introducing young readers to the wonders of art. With its engaging writing style, stunning reproductions, and thoughtful selection of artworks, this book proves to be an invaluable tool for nurturing a love and appreciation for art in children. Whether used in the classroom or at home, this book is a must-have for parents, educators, and art enthusiasts alike.

First Page:

Among the first serious efforts to draw were the Egyptian square and pointed things, animals and men. The most that artists of that day succeeded in doing was to preserve the fashions of the time. Their drawings tell us that men wore their beards in bags. They show us, also, many peculiar head dresses and strange agricultural implements. Artists of that day put down what they saw, and they saw with an untrained eye and made the record with an untrained hand; but they did not put in false details for the sake of glorifying the subject... Continue reading book >>