Art Lessons

by Katherine Koller

Art Lessons is told in the voice of Cassie from seven to seventeen. As she ages, she discovers the transformative power of visual art in herself and on the lives of others.
Cassie lives in a family of sports nuts. She’s a loner, easily distracted by boyfriends, and in love with trees, her inspiration for drawing, and the process of art-making, which to her feels like floating. While unlikely teachers of all ages challenge her, it’s her Polish grandmother, Babci, who serves as an intuitive guide on Cassie’s path to becoming an artist. Through her own heightened observational skills and awareness of her difference, Cassie is saved by her art, changing as the trees she continues to draw over time.
“Koller’s ability to entertain through her writing is evident”–Winnipeg Free Press

Genres: Canada

191 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2016

Reviews

[Brenna Winter · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this coming of age story. I loved Cassie's relationship with her grandmother, her parents and the world around her.

[Marjorie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this story narrated by a girl named Cassie. She likes to keep to herself and draw or paint. She starts with her early memories as a 4 year old and ends the story about the age of 17 when she is off to art school in Vancouver. The story is set in Edmonton. The family is nice with the usual ups and downs of all families. There is an aunt and a grandmother who are particularity well drawn. This story moves along at a fast and steady pace. I thought the angst of Cassie's teenage years was well done.

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

An easy but pleasant read. Nice writing. Probably though, ultimately, not memorable. Definitely better than average.

[Laina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. So beautifully written, and a sensory delight.

[Igpy Kin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exquisite.

[Angebella99 · Rating 3 out of 5]

it's a book that leaves room for lots of different interpretation.
perfect for a book club discussion!

[Elaine · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a lovely book with delicate, artful writing. It grew on me as the story unfolded.
Each chapter skilfully builds on the next, over the course of a young girl's life.

[Ella Harvey · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a lovely book with delicate, artful writing. It grew on me as the story unfolded.
Each chapter skilfully builds on the next, over the course of a young girl's life.