Vincent Van Gogh: Portrait of an Artist

This ＂lively, beautifully written biography＂ (Kirkus Reviews) of the famous Post-Impressionist artist who painted Starry Night and many other masterpieces is ＂fascinating reading＂ (School Library Journal, Starred Review).

Vincent Van Gogh--one of the nineteenth century’s most brilliant artist--will forever be remembered as the Dutchman who pioneered new techniques and styles and who, in a fit of passion, cut off his own ear.

Whether painting a portrait, landscape, or still life, van Gogh sought to capture the vibrant spirit of his subject. Still, fame eluded him. This lack of recognition over a career spanning a mere decade (from ages twenty-seven to thirty-seven) fueled his lifelong self-doubt and bitter disappointments. Today, however, van Gogh’s paintings are recognized as masterpieces, and the tormented Dutchman stands as a giant among artists.

Vincent Van Gogh: Portrait of An Artist has been selected as a Common Core State Standards Text Exemplar (Grades 6-8, Historical/Social Studies) in Appendix B. It features a sixteen-page insert with family photographs and full-color painting reproductions and includes a glossary of artists and terms, a biographical time line, notes, a bibliography, and locations of museums that display Van Gogh’s work.

A ROBERT F. SILBERT HONOR BOOK
AN ALA NOTABLE BOOK
AN ALA BEST BOOK FOR YOUNG ADULTS
A SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR
A BOOKLIST CHILDREN’S EDITOR’S CHOICE

Jan Greenberg and Sandra Jordan are the authors of several acclaimed books about art, including Frank O. Gehry: Outside In and Chuck Close Up Close, as well as three companion books, The Painter’s Eye, The Sculptor’s Eye, and The American Eye.