The Colour Book

by Sophie Benini Pietromarch

Illustrated in remarkable collage artwork, and written in an intimate, easy tone, 'The Colour Book' is an exciting journey from childhood memories and the feelings that colours can create, to the practicalities of mixing shades and creating a personal colour diary.

Genres: Art, Childrens

141 pages, Hardcover

First published April 8, 2014

Reviews

[Elizabeth Nordquest · Rating 5 out of 5]

I won this in a First Reads giveaway.

Technically, this is a children's book (?) but I felt like the tone was approachable and not babied, or dumbed down. It reminded me of Nick Bantock's instructions for collage making. Very dreamy.

Everything is open-ended and the author makes some interesting suggestions for projects to get started on your "color dance." I thought it was well done compared to other art books I've read. Not intimidating, but still informative and inspirational.

I'm glad I won this!

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book blew my mind! So powerful was the way in which it discussed color and invited me to think about it in a much more scientific/mathematical way! This is a must read; I was very aware of using a different part of my brain to make sense of all the information presented here.

The text is simple, poetic, and chocked full of information about the color wheel and color theory as well as how artists use primary colors and shades to create the palette of color in their paintings.

There's a lot of room for readers to test their skills as they are developing them in text and the collage artwork is inspiring. I can't say enough good about this book; it's definitely one of the best books I've read in years.

Recommended for grades 3-5+.

[Matthew Hundley · Rating 4 out of 5]

How does one go about explaining color? Do we dream in color? Think in color? Hear colors? Smell colors? Do we all see the same colors? Sophie Benini Pietromarchi (great name) does a great job leading the reader in a dance (of sorts) through the various ways we experience color. And then attempts to jump start the creative mind by offering ways to begin to incorporate color into our thoughts, our reminiscence and our creative endeavors.

[Jun Nguyễn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read about colors. Dream in hues. And dance with shades.

[Mala Rajpal · Rating 5 out of 5]

So so so beautiful, cover to cover, and so fascinating! I have been trying to understand and work with colour for two years now and this book is such a magical world, a revelation. The author gives so much texture to colours. In a simple yet profound way I have felt connected to colours and I can say confidently that I have truly begun this journey. This book is just a starting point, I know I am going to keep this handy and use for many many years to come.

Can’t remember the last time I smiled so much while reading a book! 😊😊😊

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was quite a surprise as I was expecting a more traditional book for primary children about colors. The text may be most useful for art teachers or illustrators, although the author does suggest several exercises that would provide anyone interested in art, children included, a much better understanding of the importance of their color choices.

[Siskiyou-Suzy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really neat book that would be lovely to share with a budding artist. Very little concrete information about color is included (though some is!) but a ton of inspiration and ideas for activities are. The book sort of assumes you have an art set and paint, so I'd definitely suggest getting this for a child who has shown an interest in painting. It's very nice to look at as well.

[Kerstin Daynes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a charming and magical book that encourages the reader to really think about color. It is meant for artists who are learning to mix paint and make colors, but I loved it for her description and perspective. I found myself wanting to really consider color in my life and to make my own color journal.

[Nancy Currie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully illustrated book with a ribbon of words woven through them telling the story of colour. Very soothing to read or to just flip through, taking in the beautiful colours. Delightful addition to any library.

[Alexis Kramschuster]

Very interesting book for kids/young adults. Teaches you a lot about color

[Vicky Vaughn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the way this book talks about color and how to make it.

[Aaron Wong · Rating 2 out of 5]

Pietromarchi, S. B. (2014). The color book. London: Tara Books.

What's the point again?

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is fantastic! Great for young artists and beginners of all ages!