for how she looked,
her crooked walk,
and how small she was.
explain her condition."
I have always had great admiration for Kathy Stinson's books. This picture book biography about folk artist Maud Lewis does not change that, except perhaps to make it stronger. What a fascinating and inspiring story she shares! It is such a compelling and uplifting look at a life that was not easy; yet, it was filled with beauty and determination. Paying clear attention to the details and wonder of the artist and the life she lived, Ms. Stinson impresses with her love for this tiny woman with a big heart. Lauren Soloy creates superb accompanying artwork to bring those words and Maud's love for the natural world to life for young readers.
Born in 1903 into a world of hardship adds a certain sadness to the telling: there was no knowledge or treatment available to help Maud deal with the pain of her rheumatoid arthritis; following her parents' deaths, her brother sold the family home and left to find his own path; Maud, with nowhere to live was forced to make her home with an aunt. Life with her aunt was unsatisfactory, and Maud needed to set out on her own.
She found a position as housekeeper to Everett Lewis, a crusty and miserly fish seller. She quickly made his house a home with her love of color and her need to paint what she saw outside the window. Whenever she could get some paint, she used it to create her wonderful art. Maud and Everett married, and spent many days traveling around the countryside selling his fish and her paintings. There was no lack of subject matter.
"A window. A whole of life already framed.
Right there. A bird whizzing by, a bumblebee.
Always different.
- Maud Lewis"
When she could no longer walk or paint, Everett wheeled her around in his wheelbarrow. She was always able to see all that was beautiful and good in the world. Her art, which now hangs in galleries and homes throughout the world did not make her much money when she was alive. As so often happens, it is coveted by many today and sells for more than Maud and Everett could have dreamed.
Back matter includes more about Maud, an author's note and a note from the illustrator. What a treasure this is!
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