What Is Color? The Global and Sometimes Gross Story of Pigments, Paint, and the Wondrous World of Art

Using an effusive cartoon version of himself as a guide, Weinberg (Washer and Dryer’s Big Job) joins forces with dog Waldo to lead readers along a delightfully meandering journey that gives new meaning to “color commentary.” He begins by explaining foundational color principles, a vivid analogy always at the ready, as when he likens the sky to an “everything bagel wrapped around the earth” to describe the brilliance of sunrises and sunsets. Illustrated via sketches, clip art, and collage, this thorough, fanciful work explores the technology and global nuances of eight colors—red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, pink, and black—and features encounters with artists such as Yayoi Kusama, shown in a polka-dotted red room, and Kerry James Marshall, who discusses pigments for painting Black Americans’ skin (“Blackness can have complexity. Depth. Richness”). Weinberg also delves into numerous color backstories, such as the origin of piuri, “also called Indian yellow,” and the significance of the pink triangle in queer history. Color-making activities (such as creating pink dye from avocados) and a host of additional insights and information conclude, making it clear that color is a subject Weinberg just can’t quit. Ages 6–10. (Aug.)