MY BROTHER VINCENT VAN GOGH

De Bie adopts the compassionate voice of Vincent van Gogh's brother and confidante, Theo, for this sympathetic, detailed picture book biography, which also incorporates art exercises. The narrative device allows readers easy entry into the van Goghs' world: Theo is excited about art and the art movements that were to influence Vincent, and he is a reliable reporter. Through him, readers see how painting became all-consuming for Vincent even as the artist became less and less able to manage for himself. Theo's accounts of Vincent's artistic interests and inspirations (Millet's farmers, Rembrandt's interiors, Japanese prints, etc.) and his intersections with other painters create a highly atmospheric evocation of a pivotal moment in art history. Profusely illustrated with unusually fine reproductions of paintings and drawings by van Gogh and his contemporaries, the presentation supports the complexity of the text. Subtle colored backgrounds harmonize the juxtaposition of black-and-white sketches and prints with color reproductions. Simple but effective art lessons, based on van Gogh's subjects and techniques, enhance the book's appeal and immediacy. Although the translation (from the Dutch) is occasionally stilted, the author's imagination and conviction make this familiar territory seem fresh and newly compelling. Ages 10-up. (Mar.)