Myth, Magic, and Mystery: One Hundred Years of American Children's Book Illustration

by Trinkett Clark

The finest work of every prominent children's book illustrator of the 20th century, including Beatrix Potter, Dr. Suess, Edward Gorey, and many others, is explored in this invaluable book.

Genres: Nonfiction, Art, Reference, Childrens, Picture Books, History

242 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1996

Reviews

[Melody Schwarting · Rating 3 out of 5]

In my reading about children's book illustration, Myth, Magic, & Mystery fills in the gap of the latter half of the 20th century. Published in 1996, this book can nearly tackle the whole decade, though most of the latest sources considered are from the 1980s. Tasha Tudor, John Steptoe, Eric Carle, and others have been absent from my readings on the "Golden Age," but this book goes beyond that time period.

Five major sections make up the book, considering topics like ABC books and (of course) fantasies and fairy tales. The choice of illustrators is incredibly vast, making this book a rich resource on midcentury children's literature. Any one of these artists could be researched in their own right.

As always with some edited volumes, the chapters can be a little uneven, with occasional odd forays into politics and other external factors on children's literature. (Why mention Nixon? Just why?) Overall, this is a book worth exploring for anyone interested in mid-to-late twentieth century children's literature illustration.

[Cheryl]

Not enough pictures, far too much text, and though large and heavy my eyes could not make out much at all. Otherwise, amazing! Interested teachers and parents with good vision should at least take a look.

[Cara Byrne · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting introduction to the genre

[Jane · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first great overview of picture books - a wonderful catalog!