Blue & Other Colours: with Henri Matisse

Henri Matisse’s abstract cut-outs are used to teach colours in this innovative read-aloud board book

Blue & Other Colours takes children through Henri Matisse’s colour palette, one artwork per page, beginning with blue and returning to it as a familiar refrain throughout. The variance of shapes, depth, and scale of the shapes on each page will keep readers engaged, while the text enriches the reading experience with relatable commentary that encourages conversation.

Henri Matisse's innovative use of colour has inspired generations of artists. His cutouts – collages made from shapes cut from painted paper in a process he described as ‘painting with scissors’ – have become some of the most admired works of the last century.

Through this groundbreaking book, readers will not only learn their colours, but also grow familiar with fine art.

Each title in this must-own series of artful read-aloud board uses masterpieces by celebrated artists to teach one of the top early-learning concepts for toddlers. Each concept is explored playfully through a curated selection of beautifully reproduced artworks while the accompanying text enriches the experience with witty, conversational commentary and an ‘about the artist’ text. Companion books in this series feature the art of Pablo Picasso, Ellsworth Kelly, Alexander Calder, and Josef Albers.

Age range: 1-3 years

Review

'Beautiful... A fun new way for children to learn vocabulary while being taught about great artists.' – BookTrust.org.uk

'Gorgeous. .. this smart book will catch little viewers' attentions quickly ... a nice way to mix colour recognition and fine art appreciation.' – ArcaMax

'Takes children through Matisse's color palette by showing his various collages ... Children will be able to relate.' – New York Journal of Books

'An excellent read to inspire creativity and learn about colour identification from one of the greats.' – Anorakmagazine.com

'You can't beat a baby book that offers another level of education beyond simple first concepts.' – BambinoGoodies.co.uk

'This lovely, well-conceived example seems liable to leave a lasting impression on a little mind.' – The New York Times

'Parents and readers looking for a way to inspire creativity and move beyond basic color identification will do well with this one... An excellent read to kick-start an evolution in budding artist's minds.' – Kirkus

'Beautiful ... will keep toddlers engaged.' – Aldershot News & Mail

'A stout little board book, with laminated pages, built to withstand the attention of enthusiastic young readers ... This book gives children access to this artist's work either on their own or with adults, where it will be useful as a "look together" resource ... A delightful introduction to art ... will provide means for teachers and parents to engage children with art early on in their lives.' – Montessori International

'It's never too early to introduce babies to the beauty of the art world.' – ChopsyBaby.com