Vincent Van Gogh: Portrait of an Artist

Vincent Van Gogh: Portrait of an Artist
Delacorte Books for Young Readers, 2001
written by Jan Greenberg & Sandra Jordan

ISBN: 978-0-38532-806-7
Hardcover picture book, 144 pages
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Vincent van Gogh — one of the 19th century’s most brilliant artists — will forever be remembered as the Dutchman who cut off his ear. But this incident only underscores the passion that consumed him–a passion that, when he took up painting at age 27, infused his work. Whether painting a portrait, a landscape, or a still life, Van Gogh sought to capture the vibrant spirit of his subject. It didn’t matter that others found his work too unconventional. Van Gogh persevered. And as he moved from the cold climate of Holland to balmy southern France, he pioneered a new technique and style.
In a career spanning only a decade, Van Gogh painted many great works, yet fame eluded him. This lack of recognition increased his self-doubts and bitter disappointments. Today, however, Van Gogh stands as a giant among artists.

Robert F. Sibert Honor Book, 2001
ALA Notable Children’s Book, 2001
Ala Best Book for Young Adults, 2001
School Library Journal: Best Books of the Year
The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books:  Blue Ribbon Book
Booklist: Editor’s Choice
A New York Public Library Book for the Teenage

Vincent Van Gogh: Portrait of an Artist is a “Text Exemplar” in the Common Core State Standards Appendix B under Informational texts: History/social studies

 
I have nature and art and poetry.
If that is not enough what is?

—Letter to Theo, January 1874