by Anne on November 14, 2010
William Steig, writer and illustrator
Nov. 14, 1907-Oct. 3, 2003
When Everyone Wore a Hat by William Steig (Joanna Colter Books, 2003)
In this picture book autobiography, Steig looked at the year he was eight, when the world was at war, and he had dreams for the future.
A cartoonist for the New Yorker, Steig was in his 60s when he began writing and illustrating children’s books. Stop by the New York Times for an art review on Steig and a link to the slide show on Steig’s work at the Jewish Museum.
by Anne on October 13, 2010
Art Tatum, musician
Oct. 13, 1907-Nov. 5, 1956
Piano Starts Here: The Young Art Tatum by Robert Andrew Parker (Schwartz & Wade Books, 2008)
Mostly self-taught, Tatum began playing the piano as a young child. Because of his poor eyesight, he could not participate in many activities. The piano was his refuge and strength. Word spread and soon he was playing in cafes, bars and the local radio station in his hometown of Toledo. Written in first person, this is a humble story of a gifted child who becomes one of the all-time jazz greats.
Watch and listen to Art Tatum play “Humoresque” on YouTube, his signature tune.
Frida Kahlo, artist
July 6, 1907-July 13, 1954
Frida by Jonah Winter, illustrated by Ana Juan (Arthur A. Levine Books, 2002)
Kahlo, a Mexican painter, often used herself as the subject of her work. She was married to muralist Diego Rivera.
The Tate Gallery in London posts an exhibit and information about Kahlo on its site.
Rachel Carson, biologist
May 27, 1907-April 14, 1964
Amelia to Zora: Twenty-Six Women Who Changed the World by Cynthia Chin-Lee, illustrated by Megan Halsey and Sean Addy (Charlesbridge, 2005)
Back in the day, Carson’s book Silent Spring, published in 1962, had a huge impact on the environmental movement…and still does.
RachelCarson.org is a “website devoted to the life and legacy of Rachel Carson.
by Anne on November 14, 2009
William Steig, writer and illustrator
Nov. 14, 1907-Oct. 3, 2003
When Everyone Wore a Hat by William Steig (Joanna Colter Books, 2003)
In this picture book autobiography, Steig looked at the year he was eight, when the world was at war, and he had dreams for the future.
A cartoonist for the New Yorker, Steig was in his 60s when he began writing and illustrating children’s books. Stop by the Official Site of William Steig for articles on Steig, his books, reading guides and more.
book source: library
