Vincent: Starry Starry Night

by Judith A. Proffer, Yoko Matsuoka (illustrator)

"This book borrows from my song Vincent. At the time I was reading a book about the Dutch painter and was moved to compose a song that paid homage to the artist, his work, and his pain. But really, Judith Proffer hardly needed my song's inspiration since she has a beautiful imagination. We know Vincent's life didn't have a happy ending, but by honoring his illness we take a once cloistered conversation and bring it to the forefront." - Don McLean

A long, long time ago lived a shy and fairly quiet boy named Vincent.

Vincent saw things differently than other children. Where other children experienced light and joy, Vincent lived in shadows and a gloomy darkness. He was drawn to the beauty of the world that surrounded him, but Vincent struggled to recognize the beauty within himself. And so he made colorful drawings on his sketchpad to chase away the greyest of feelings. As he grew older and his sorrow deepened, Vincent turned to bold canvases, capturing the swirl of emotions with his mighty brushstrokes.

Lushly illustrated in the spirit of some of Van Gogh's greatest works, Vincent gently fosters empathy and understanding, painting a vivid and tender picture of sadness and strife to inspire compassion and kindness within the hearts of children of all ages.

Both accessible and hopeful, Vincent encourages readers to nurture their own creativity and tend to their own twirl of feelings, and also sparks conversation to understand that it's okay to seek help when faced with challenges - all while honoring Van Gogh's enduring legacy.

Don McLean's song "Vincent" poignantly reflects the profound melancholy of Vincent van Gogh, whose life was marked by intense emotional struggles. As the second single released from McLean's American Pie album, "Vincent" reached number one in the UK and was a top 20 hit in the US in 1972. It remains McLean's second most popular song after "American Pie." It's been recorded by Josh Groban, Ellie Goulding, Julio Iglesias, and Jane Olivor.

Genres: Art

56 pages, Hardcover

Published October 1, 2024

Reviews

[Deborah Fontaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like the song Vincent (Starry Starry Night), this lovely book, Vincent Starry Starry Night—written by Judith A. Proffer and illustrated by Yoko Matsuoka—is a terrific tribute to Vincent Van Gogh’s work along with the creative genius of Don McLean whose song served as the basis for this incredible tale.

Reading this beautiful book was something I was very excited about because I have always been fascinated by Vincent Van Gogh.

The wonderful message for kids is that no matter how they are feeling, they aren't alone. The book provides a gentle look at despair and sadness.

This story is meant to be shared and celebrated.

Thank you, @BookPublicityServices and Kelsey for this beautiful book!

[Jordan Hale · Rating 5 out of 5]

This children’s book is a beautiful story about Vincent Van Gogh. It encourages readers to have empathy as it gently portrays how the artist experienced sadness throughout his life. This book teaches readers how artwork can have important meaning and feelings behind it and how as viewers we interpret artwork.

[Stephanie Affinito · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vincent: Starry, Starry Night by Judith A. Proffer is such a beautiful celebration of Vincent Van Gogh’s work and life. And so much more. Based on Don McLean’s song, Vincent, the lyrics invite readers to consider the beautiful backstory and meaning behind his work. But beyond the obvious retelling of his life, there is a poignant invitation to readers to feel welcome, to feel seen and to feel enough, no matter who and where they are in the world. It’s a lyrical, beautiful book that touches upon the very important issue of mental health and left this reader feeling soothed and seen.

[Chuck Armstrong · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an instant classic. It works on all levels. It will leave you touched and moved. A work that honors the art and artist, and is a tribute to the genius of the music artist whose song inspired this amazing story. It is a gift to all who read it - and is a celebration of humanity that is meant to be shared aloud with others. Bravo!

[Dalal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Judith A. Proffer’s Vincent's Starry Night is a heartfelt tribute to Vincent van Gogh and his iconic painting The Starry Night, offering readers a beautifully told story that dives deep into the emotions and experiences of the artist. Through this book, Proffer brings van Gogh's passion, struggles, and creativity to life in a way that is accessible for readers of all ages.

The book masterfully captures the essence of van Gogh's artistic vision while providing insight into the personal challenges he faced. Proffer’s writing is thoughtful and empathetic, allowing readers to connect with van Gogh not just as an artist, but the child he once was. The narrative offers a glimpse into the mind of someone whose work was underappreciated during his lifetime, but whose art continues to inspire millions today.

The lush descriptions of The Starry Night evoke the same sense of wonder that the painting does, allowing readers to experience the swirling skies and bright stars through vivid language. Proffer’s portrayal of van Gogh’s internal world, his longing for connection, and his love for the natural beauty around him, adds depth to the story of one of history’s most celebrated artists. This book is a perfect choice for art lovers, history enthusiasts, or anyone who has ever been moved by van Gogh’s work. It invites readers to reflect on the power of creativity, resilience, and the beauty of seeing the world through the eyes of an artist.

[Laura K. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been a a fan of Vincent van Gogh's art for decades. This book inspires me to revisit some of his works to search for messages hidden in the paintings. Judith Proffer skillfully reminds us that we just need to know where to look. This beautifully illustrated book (illustrations by Yoko Matsuoka) is an educational story about art - reminding the reader to look beyond the initial viewing of a painting- beyond the swirls, and colors, and dark and light, to really imagine what the artist might be trying to tell us.

The book is also an educational book about feelings and behaviors. Judith reminds us that it's ok to be quiet, loud, serious, silly, and more! There is room for all of us. Finally, this is a compassionate look into the life of Vincent van Gogh, and how he infused his artwork with his feelings - both happy and sad.

Laura Dean
Author of Music in the Westward Expansion: Songs of Heart and Place on the American Frontier.

[Aimee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not only is this a beautiful book, but it has a beautiful message. Vincent, a sad and shy child, saw darkness while others found light. He wasn’t always understood but his art was. He would hide his sadness in his paintings among the beauty he found in nature. This story can make other children feel less alone in their feelings. To know that we all fit in this world not matter how we feel. We all have a special talent, like Vincent. And we all can share our talent with the world.

I love this book was written about Vincent Van Gogh as a child and how he was perceived by others. Many others are more of a biography of his entire life. The illustrations are lovely and colorful.

[Amber O · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you want a sweet and gentle approach to the life and work of Vincent Van Gogh for children, this book is just that. It is so beautifully written and illustrated, it is perfect for all ages. I love how it gently touches on Van Gogh’s darker emotions and how he used his art to display this. This made for a great discussion starter for my 8 year old and why it is important to treat everyone with kindness and compassion, no matter what.
This book emphasizes creativity and embraces uniqueness. Elementary age is great for this and it would be a great addition to an art or artist unit study in a homeschool setting.

[Megan Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The perfect addition for any teacher’s collection (especially art teachers)!

Not only is the book beautifully illustrated by Yoko Matsuoka but its approach to sharing the nuanced struggles of Vincent Van Gogh’s life is age appropriate for elementary children. The author, Judith Proffer, does this while simultaneously sharing the immense brilliance of his work. The references to his struggles in school and amongst his peers can be relatable for some students as well.

This book would be a wonderful way to start a Vincent Van Gogh artist study for elementary or middle school students to understand a bit more about the man who made such incredible works as “The Starry Night”, part of the book titles namesake.

[Johana Mulero · Rating 5 out of 5]

First and foremost can we talk about the illustrations! The illustrations were the first thing that drew us in. They’re not loud or bright but subtle and beautiful. You definitely feel like you’re in a VanGogh painting on each page. Then the story, I didn’t even know this book would talk about emotions. It expresses how Vincent was sad but the world seems like a place made for happy people, but truly was made for sad people too. It’s made for all kinds of people, loud, silly, quiet, thinkers, and more. What a beautiful beautiful book!

[Molly McFee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful story!
Reviewed in the United States on October 4, 2024
This book about Vincent Van Gogh would be great for my elementary art students. It focuses on Vincent’s mental illness and struggles with sadness and depression but in the most kid-friendly way I’ve seen before. The illustrations are gorgeous as well. Sharing Vincent’s story is always a bit tricky with young students, but this book seems like a great resource for talking about his depression in a developmentally appropriate manner.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vincent: Starry Starry Night is Children’s picture book is too stunning for words. With gorgeous illustrations reminiscent of Van Gogh’s art style the pictures seem to speak for themselves even though words are included. The book is inspired by Don McLean’s song Vincent, which is McLean’s second most popular song after American Pie. Though none of us really knew Vincent I think this book does an excellent job of capturing his lifelong emotional struggles for a younger audience. It sends a message that its okay to not be okay.

Read the full book review on the blog at: https://www.lifeofafemalebibliophile....

[Sharon the Librarian · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a beautiful and sad story of Vincent Van Gogh. I wasn’t aware of the darkness and sadness inside of him, and this story puts it beautifully. His sketching helped as he poured his emotions into the colors with pens, pencils, chalks, and brushes.

The song, Vincent, by Don McLean was the inspiration for the story. I will never hear the song without these images in my head again. A lot of people feel sadness and despair at times, but for some it is an illness- not a temporary emotion. Thankfully, we now know and understand it more and have help available for all.

The illustrations are stunning- so fitting and highly resemble the work of the famous artist.

[Brittany Brandt · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a beautiful read full of vibrant artwork and a beautiful story. It is perfect for my French Composers unit where we talk about Impressionism in art and music. It’s also a beautiful social emotional learning connection with the vibrant and moody feelings of the main character! Loved this book!

[Hannah Ehle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was gifted to me by Book Publicity Services & Kelsey— thank you!

Vincent is a story about Van Gough’s childhood that helps children to have empathy for others and what they may be going through. The illustrations are beautiful! I will likely give this book to a friend who teaches art, though it does include a song in it!

[Heather Best · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vincent Starry Starry Night by Judith A. Proffer
Illustrated by Yoko Matsuoka

This story shares the journey of a little boy who loves to paint. He was mesmerized with the world around him. Although, he never saw the gifts within himself. Vincent was often rather sad throughout his life. This book’s words are paired amazingly with pictures to help little ones understand how we all see and experience emotions differently.

The book was inspired by “Vincent” a song by Don McLean and has a great way of teaching compassion with others.

[Jane Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vincent Starry Starry Night is an excellent book to share with kindergartners and school age children. It navigates complex emotions and the power of art. The illustrations tell a powerful story in of themselves. The vocabulary is rich and captures the emotions of the story.

[Meagan Wendt · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is absolutely gorgeous. I can’t wait to use this to teach my art students. It talks a lot about Vincent’s feelings which is a great SEL moment, but might be a little heavy for some age groups so I’ll use it in 2nd I think!

[Katie Jarvis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect book for elementary art! Beautiful illustrations and a positive message.

[Erin Buhr]

This is an admittedly heavy story about how Vincent Van Gogh saw the world. Often depressed, he didn’t see the world as bright and hopeful most of the time despite the way the world was reflected in his paintings. Despite these heavy ideas, this story has a loveliness to it. It is full of acceptance and hope and for the right kid, who needs to hear that feeling low or seeing the world differently is okay, this is a beautiful book.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adore this book. The illustrations are gorgeous and I think it will help kids feel seen. Kids who are may feel different or are experiencing big feelings!

[Jeanette Shorey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is absolutely beautiful in its illustrations. It tells the story of Van Gogh in a way that young readers can understand and empathize with. It has an important message about seeing and accepting people who are different, and it takes on the challenging topic of depression. This book is a great way to talk to children about feelings.

[Caroline Christiansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful book readers can empathize with regarding the intense feelings that all humans experience, some more than others. Often, artists’ emotions are found within their work, and this is the case for “Vincent”. With beautiful illustrations that captivate the readers’ imagination, this book pays homage to a beautiful artist whose work lives on forever.

[Kayla McNaughton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is so beautifully written and tackles a very difficult subject matter. The story tells us about one of the most influential artists of all time and their struggle with depression. This book handles this gently and appropriately and envelopes readers with the incredible artwork.

[Carla · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautiful book with a meaningful message for children! I was first drawn to this book by the cover and was delighted to find the inside just as gorgeous. My son and I have been learning more about Vincent Van Gogh recently, so this was a must read for us. The text is interesting and kept my five year old engaged. We are all going through things and it isn’t always obvious on the outside. This book gave me the opportunity to talk to my son about different emotions and the importance of being kind! I definitely recommend checking out this beautiful children’s book!

[Andrea W · Rating 5 out of 5]

A tender look at sadness and depression with a fantastic message for children that it’s okay not to feel okay and they aren’t alone, even at their very loneliest hour. Matsuoka’s artwork pays lovely homage to Van Gogh’s own work while taking on a wonderful life of it’s own as it expertly depicts the meloncholy of young Vincent. Don McLean’s beautiful introduction sets the stage for the story while helping to destigmatize and open up the conversation regarding Van Gogh’s struggles with mental illness to even our youngest readers.

[Rachel Cummings · Rating 5 out of 5]

How much do you know about Vincent van Gogh? Sadly, the only thing I remember learning about him is that he took his own life. One of the greatest and most influential painters to have ever lived, struggled with depression. This is a heavy and difficult topic for a children’s book, yet Judith A. Proffer handles it masterfully in Vincent: Starry Starry Night. This story is based on Don McLean’s song, Vincent, and the lyrical feel of the story matches the colorful and enchanting illustrations by Yoko Matsuoka perfectly. The illustrations give us a peek into the way Vincent might have seen the world, and the story teaches us that the world was created for everyone, even Vincent. His story has a sad ending, but maybe it can give hope to those who struggle with similar emotions. He saw the beauty of the world, “but he never saw the grace and beauty within himself.”

No one understood why, but Vincent was always sad, and he saw the world differently. Even on lively streets and in chaotic classrooms, he felt alone. Vincent tried to chase away the sadness, “grabbing all of the feelings with his pens and pencils and chalks and brushes,” but joy “seemed to escape him.” He lives on only through his paintings now, and perhaps people will finally be able to understand what was behind those sad blue green eyes.

This book talks about how we all get sad, but the world wasn’t just made for the happy people, but for the “serious people and silly people,” loud people and quiet people, helpers, healers, seekers, builders, and artists too.

This is a sweet and gentle, yet also sad and profound, book that pays homage “to the artist, his work and his pain.” It can be used as a great conversation starter on the difficult topic of depression, and that there is hope and no one is truly alone. I used it as an opportunity to talk about Jesus, and that there is always light in the darkness.

This book portrays Vincent as a young boy and does not mention his suicide or use the word “depression,” so parents can use their discretion on age appropriateness of this topic. It can also be used solely as an art appreciation book, as this is a visually stunning book with recreations of Vincent’s famous paintings.

*I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.*

[Olivia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Written by Judith A. Proffer and illustrated by Yoko Matsuoka, “Vincent: Starry Starry Night,” pays homage to the artist’s endless talent while discussing the immense emotional challenges that he experienced. As a child, Van Gogh saw things differently from those around him; in order to convey and express his feelings, he began sketching and painting the natural world. While his struggles with his mental health continued throughout his life, Van Gogh persisted in his artwork, ultimately producing over 900 paintings and even more sketches and drawings. Concluding spreads encourage readers to find the beauty in all things, while emphasizing the importance of asking for help when needed.
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This text thoughtfully and carefully discusses the challenges Van Gogh encountered throughout his life in an accessible manner for young readers. Certain to spark discussion and reflection, this book also emphasizes the importance of treating one’s community with kindness and empathy - including one’s own self. Matsuoka’s illustrations are visually stunning, a spectacular tribute to the book’s subject. Thank you to the publisher for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review!

[Mother Goose Librarian · Rating 5 out of 5]

“No one understood why, but Vincent saw things differently than other children.”

Vincent: Starry Starry Night written by Judith A. Proffer and illustrated by Yoko Matsuoka is a beautiful and heartfelt story about young Vincent van Gogh and how he suffered from depression. Proffer tells a gentle story of a child and his sadness and how he expressed himself through his art. Her writing style is poetic and expresses the poignance of a difficult topic in a child-friendly manner. An introduction written by Don McLean, singer and song writer of the song, “Vincent,” describes Proffer’s inspiration for her picture book. Matsuoka‘s, mostly double page, full color illustrations are a delight and are reminiscent of van Gogh’s art style. The cover art and end pages invite readers in to this tender story. Vincent: Starry Starry Night is an important story. Not only is it a delightful memoir of young Vincent van Gogh, but it is also an important story about feelings that can be shared with both young and old.

“So on starry, starry nights and cold and wintry days, Vincent chased his blues and grays, grabbing all of the feelings with his pens and pencils and chalks and brushes.”

[Jen Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

When we think about Vincent Van Gogh, we think about sunflowers, irises and starry, starry nights. Some of us will think about the damage he did to himself and the way he felt he had to end his life. But how many of us think about the ‘inbetweens’, the tortured soul living in a time where serious mental illness was neither recognised or supported and medication to help simply didn’t exist? How every brush stroke on that starry night sky represents a boy who could see beauty and light in the darkest of nights but could only see shadows in himself.

Inspired by ‘Vincent’ by Don McClean, Judith highlights the ‘inbetween’ and encourages people to look beyond the priceless masterpieces and see the man and honour him and his illness by seeing it in others and offering support. Stunning illustrations make this poignant read a visual feast.