Beautiful Useful Things: What William Morris Made

Gr 3-6–William Morris was truly a Renaissance man, even though he lived in Victorian England. In celebrating Morris’s life, the author focuses on the design icon as an artist, environmentalist, and world traveler. Sparse on historical detail but rich in imagery, this biography presents the opportunity to see the world as Morris did; full of the connections and beauty found in nature. Disturbed by the mass production of goods and the resulting pollution of the environment resulting from England’s Industrial Revolution, Morris made the conscious decision to promote handmade items and support the arts and crafts movement of the period. The book’s appealing illustrations are reminiscent of Morris’s style as an artist. They contain connecting images viewed from various perspectives and reflect his passion for nature. Artisans of the period are depicted creating handmade works of art using the tools and materials of the era. Back matter includes an author’s note, an illustrator’s note, and a list of resources.