Jack in Search of Art

February 1, 1999
PreS-Gr 3-Jack is an endearing bear of little brain. One rainy day, he finds himself outside a museum beside a sign that says, "Come See Art!" He enters, asks for "Art," and is puzzled when told that art can be found throughout the museum. Although the story line is based on a one-joke misunderstanding, simplicity serves this plot well. As the bear wanders through the museum, he is amazed and gratified by the beauty of the fine works that he encounters. Depicted as amiable cartoon characters, Jack and the other bear patrons are juxtaposed against backdrops filled with masterpieces. The simple cartoon illustrations integrate well with the more complex pieces of art to which readers are being introduced. Through Jack's experiences, the author informs youngsters of the wonders awaiting them at a museum. This well-executed book succeeds as a charming lesson in art appreciation except for one major design flaw. A numbered key to the artworks presented is included, but the fact that the pages are unnumbered makes the individual items difficult to identify. Still, children who enjoyed learning about music in A Cheerful Note for Jack (Roberts Rinehart, 1996) and new fans alike will appreciate this foray into the arts.-Rosalyn Pierini, San Luis Obispo City-County Library, CA