Sketching Outdoors in Spring

Arnosky is known for widening young readers' perceptions of the abundance of nature. Succeeding Drawing from Nature and Drawing Life in Motion, the author's third guide gently teaches children to see and record emerging life in March and April. Quick sketches and detailed drawings show budding wild flowers, birds, flowing streams and animals, and many other sights around Arnosky's rural home in Vermont. These vital scenes are accompanied by the artist's practical advice (take a minimum of supplies; wear gloves if it's cold), techniques and pointers that the writer's friendly, informal approach make easy to grasp. There is further inspiration in descriptions of howo and why each wonder commends itself to an artist's eye. Ages 10-up. (March)