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CM . . . . Volume XXI Number 3 . . . . September 19, 2014
excerpt:
Emily Carr was an eccentric artist, known for her love of animals, many of whom became her companions. She named her monkey Woo because of the creature's shrieks: "woo-woo-woo!" The cheeky and playful simian played pranks on Emily's other pets, as well as on some of her visitors. One day, Woo's curiosity and love of hoarding small treasures got her into serious trouble when she stole a tube of yellow paint and ate it.
Dean Griffiths brings Woo and Emily to life with mixed-media paintings. Illustrating the story of another artist must surely be an intimidating task, but Griffiths captures Carr's emotions clearly. Anyone who has visited Victoria will happily recognize some landmarks that Griffiths deftly includes. When Emily Carr Met Woo will appeal to children who love animals, as well as art lovers. As an introduction to Emily Carr, who is often depicted as "a strange bird" or otherwise odd (even for an artist), the use of her mischievous monkey Woo will delight children and adults alike. When Emily Carr Met Woo is a definite addition to any home or classroom which values Canadian heritage. Highly Recommended. Barb Janicek is a Children's Librarian with Kitchener Public Library in Kitchener, ON. Copyright © the Manitoba Library Association. Reproduction for personal use is permitted only if this copyright notice is maintained. Any other reproduction is prohibited without permission.
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- September 19, 2014. |
Sensitive children may feel anxious or upset when Woo falls dangerously ill, much as Emily Carr was distraught as she "cradled Woo in her arms all night." She prayed and willed her companion to live. Fortunately for all, the monkey did survive, and they were able to make the trip into the forest where Emily did much of her famous painting.