Michelangelo
by Diane Stanley

Bibliography

Stanley, D. (2000). Michelangelo. New York: HarperCollins.  ISBN 0439353793

Summary

We are invited to watch the life of one of the most interesting famous artists in history unfold from beginning to end.  Follow young Michelangelo as he changes homes as a child, becomes an apprentice, and creates the sculpture and paintings we all know and love.

Critical Analysis

Diane Stanley’s illustrations are stunning.  Using watercolors, colored pencils and goache on watercolor paper, Stanley succeeds in creating a believable world in which to place Michelangelo’s art using modern photo manipulation.  The illustrations would steal the show if the writing wasn’t so compelling and the story so interestingly crafted.

With the background and setting prepared by an Author’s Note, we are ready to travel through Michelangelo’s life which Stanley portrays accurately and with vitality.  Stanley never glorifies her subject; she shows Michelangelo as a real person with real flaws even though he is a genius.  Her story is supported by a complete bibliography.  This book is a keeper.

Review Excerpts

*Booklist, “ … her sturdy texts stand up to her strong artwork”

*Kirkus, “ … lavishly illustrated and wonderfully readable.”

*Horn Book, “Stanley captures in words and pictures the essence of Michelangelo..."

Connections

* Pair with Leonardo da Vinci, also by Diane Stanley.  Da Vinci is mentioned as a rival in Michelangelo.

* Here is a link to Diane Stanley’s Biographies and History page on her website.  She has written so many and they are excellent!  I can personally recommend Good Queen Bess, Peter the Great, Bard of Avon, and Thanksgiving on Plymouth Plantation.

* And here is a link to her newest publications.