Count the Wings: The Life and Art of Charley Harper

Gr 5–8—Why did Charley Harper (1922–2007) draw a huge red ladybug? Houts takes readers on a journey from Harper's early life on a farm in West Virginia to his home and studio in Cincinnati. A U.S. modernist artist, his "minimal realism" style is seen around the world in huge murals, book illustrations, and even Habitat skateboards. Readers will appreciate his drawing experiences, from cartooning classes in high school to his freelance work in journals and books. But it's his signature red cardinal, fish, and bugs that most will remember. Tweens will enjoy learning fun facts from the collection of photographs included and appreciate his humor in the titles of his work: "Family Owlbum" and "Frog Eat Frog." Teachers will be drawn to his collaboration with authors E.B. White and Jane Yolen and find helpful the "Did You Know?" section at the end of each chapter (such as explaining why there is a potato bug in the mouth of a red-bellied woodpecker). Quotes and a detailed time line are included.