One of the booklists I have started (and continue to perfect) features alphabet books. It contains many I love, and I keep adding ideas. Last year's Z is for Moose, written by Kelly Bingham and illustrated by Paul O. Zelinsky, is my newest favorite, and I had the good fortune of listening to Paul talk about his work last evening at the University of Minnesota's Elmer L. Andersen Library.
He began by speaking about his recent experience as a committee member for the Ezra Jack Keats Award and by demonstrating (with his wireless Wacom tablet) the changes he has observed in how faces are often drawn. He then proceeded to show his own artistic process, how certain paintings influenced his art in Rapunzel, how the moving parts worked in Knick-Knack Paddy Whack!, and how he made the illustrations for Z is for Moose with both Photoshop and watercolors. Audiences members like me laughed at the many versions of the book jacket cover and marveled at how he often creates tunes and rhythms to go with the patterns or action sequences of a book. We especially love the book trailer for this book (http://www.paulozelinsky.com/)!
Oh, Jewel, you are sooooooo lucky to have heard him & I'm so glad you enjoyed it so much!! I have not seen Z is for Moose, will search.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing the talk. I have an alphabet book list from serveral years ago when working at the library. Now I have MORE to write you about!!
There are so many things I wish we could share! We will have to send each other our favorite alphabet titles son.
Deleteoy, gevalt, what a wonderful trailer. i bet everyone had such a wonderful time last night with paul.
ReplyDeleteWe did have a lovely time! I typed my notes and can send them to you if you'd like. Lauren requested that as well.
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