Lightposts for Living: The Art of Choosing a Joyful Life

With 10 previous books primarily showcasing his paintings, including the CBA bestsellers Simpler Times and Romantic Hideaways, Kinkade now articulates his vision and his essentially Christian philosophy of life. Described by the publisher as America's most popular living artist, Kinkade paints scenes of natural beauty and idyllic homes. His work is widely collected in this country and merchandised through 150 Kinkade-themed retail stores and on QVC. With this book, his first from a major trade house, Warner is clearly betting on his crossover appeal. Color reproductions of his work are generously interspersed throughout the text, but the focus here is on his message, which combines aspects of the simplicity movement with basic ""family values."" Co-writing with Anne Christian Buchanan, and using artistic terms such as ""painterly light,"" ""balance,"" ""harmony"" and ""filtering,"" Kinkade has successfully captured his vision in a gift book guaranteed to charm his fans. What sets this work apart from other simplicity books is the sweetness of the language and the strength of Kincade's religious faith. Urging readers to take ""joybreaks"" for little pleasures and to nurture their own childlike curiosity, he admits to being an unabashed romantic with his wife. Telling readers not to mistake austerity for simplicity, he takes obvious delight in the life his material success has made possible for his family. Those who don't share his vision may find the sweetness cloying and the view old-fashioned. But this book is sure to captivate his millions of fans and those who find comfort and pleasure in his idealized paintings. Four-color art throughout, including 16 full-page prints. 250,000 first printing; major ad/promo; author tour. (Apr.)