The Dot

Picture Book

Ages 3-7

By Peter H. Reynolds

32 pages

Candlewick

2003

Peter H. Reynolds has illustrated the books he’s written, as well as books penned by other authors. While reminiscent of Quentin Blake, his illustration style is undoubtedly his own. His art is loose, free and energetic. In The Dot, he uses beautiful splashes of color over carefully shaded two-tone art. Reynolds’ writing style is uncomplicated and undiluted. He says just what needs to be said and moves the story effortlessly.

Reynolds has also devoted himself to inspiring creativity through his books: guiding children to find their artistry, to feed it, grow it, and nurture it. And not just the kind of creativity you already know exists but any kind of creativity, encouraging readers to be imaginative and inventive and to look for inspiration all around them.

Vashti stares at her blank piece of paper at the end of art class. Her teacher meets her declaration that she “cannot draw” with calmness, and a suggestion.

Vashti picks up a marker and makes a strong jab at the paper, leaving behind a small dot. Her teacher studies the dot, and then asks Vashti to sign it.

The next week, when Vashti enters her art class, she sees her art framed and hanging over her teacher’s desk! Vashti feels both pleased and challenged.

She cracks open a new case of watercolors and sets to work. She paints dots of every color. She makes little dots and big dots.

The dots are a huge success at the school art show! A small admirer approaches Vashti. He wishes he had her talent but claims he “can’t draw a straight line with a ruler.” Vashti hands the boy a piece of paper and asks him to draw a line. He returns the paper with a small squiggly line drawn on it. Then Vashti asks him to sign it.

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