The Iridescence of Birds: A Book About Henri Matisse

A brilliant retelling of Matisse’s childhood and journey to becoming an acclaimed painter. A breathtakingly simple approach to a picture book biography.

This is a picture book of the highest order. It is breathtakingly, stunningly exquisite. A true triumph. I will read this one again and again with my children.

I didn't fully understand the brilliance of THE IRIDESCENCE OF BIRDS until my daughter started to bring it to me to be read over and over and over again. But this book really is brilliant. Using simple, but beautiful language, the author tells the story of Henri Matisse in a way that both delights children and allows them to relate to this artistic genius. And the pictures are utterly charming. My 2 year-old absolutely loves this book!

An absolutely lovely book. I bought it for my 18 month old great-nephew who is in love with books that show creative colors and images. He knows birds from bees and butterflies and identifies each. While he's very respectful of his books (for an 18 month old), I was very pleased with how sturdily bound the book was and the quality of the paper. I suspect this will be a book he'll keep for decades.You can tell by the image I've included, how happy he was.

I adore the work of Matisse, and this is such a great book to share with my grandsons. Beautiful illustrations, and a sweet, inspiring story. Adults will love this and kids will enjoy it and learn so much.

This book entices the reader into the book with the relationship of child and mother. The text and fabulous illustrations pull the reader through the story as the child grows to manhood. Colors and images honor the spirit of Matisse's work with care and love.

Love the story - it is easy for children to understand and become inspired by. The illustrations are gorgeous - they give homage to Matisse's work but are in beautiful combinations of line-drawings, color and texture within a printmaking style unique to Hooper. I absolutely adore this book and can't wait to give them as gifts to young and old friends!

Beautiful and simple, but not as intriguing or engaging as I had hoped. I flipped through it one time when it arrived and knew my godsons would not enjoy it very much. I also expected slightly richer imagery. It’s not bad, but it’s not a standout in the sea of how many incredible children’s books are available these days.

Ok but basic. Nothing really about the artist and target age can’t be more than 2 or 3. I wanted an interesting book on Matisse for my 3 and 5 year olds, both found it boring and I did too.

A great book with beautiful illustration, perfect for creative littlies and their parents!

A beautiful book - would highly recommend

孟母三遷の教え？ある作家や画家の何かの特徴がその人の育った環境と深くかかわっているのは本当でしょう。ないものを悲しむのではなくない中で楽しむ姿勢は学ぶべき。説教臭くないけど諭されます。

Exquisite artwork but a little disappointed with story.