crystal_reading's review
5.0
The illustrations are engrossing. I had a Japanese exchange student who showed us how she did calligraphy with her brushes and ink so this book really brought back those memories. The brush is an a tension of the hand. I can just imagine being there during Wu Daozi's flights of fancy.
mjfmjfmjf's review
4.0
Beautiful story book about a historical Chinese artist. As with many Chinese cultural works, it definitely feels like there is a subtext that I'm just missing - references just out of sight. But it works as both a story and a picture book.
iffer's review
3.0
3.5 stars
I liked the whimsical mood of Brush of the Gods as well as the watercolor art, but it wasn't a home run. The book made me want to learn more about Daozi. It's a shame that his final mural hasn't survived.
I liked the whimsical mood of Brush of the Gods as well as the watercolor art, but it wasn't a home run. The book made me want to learn more about Daozi. It's a shame that his final mural hasn't survived.
barbie16's review
4.0
This is a really cool story for 2-4th grade.The illustrations are beautiful; Wu Daozi’s story is simple and yet effective showing hard work pays off. His mysterious death is also an interesting piece that will spark discussion after its read.
kellkie's review
4.0
Lovely book filled with fact, fiction, and fantastic phrases that make the story come to life (a fun mirror to the idea that Daozi's paintings also came to life). Beautiful illustrations. Would have liked more information in the back of the book on the real life of Daozi; I am definitely interested in learning about him now.
pwbalto's review
5.0
Marvelous work from both Look and So. Prose that sings, paintings that are exquisite and lively but never precious.
abigailbat's review
This retelling of a Chinese legend is told with beautiful art.