Christo and Jeanne-Claude Wrap the World: The Story of Two Groundbreaking Environmental Artists

He was a poor refugee from Eastern Europe and she was the wealthy stepdaughter of a French general, but upon meeting, Christo (1935–2020) and Jeanne-Claude (1935–2009) were each immediately drawn to the other’s rebellious spirit. They soon became artistic partners, engaged in a constant conversation with each other and the world about the meaning of their art. About their material-wrapped objects, monuments, and landscapes: “People loved it or hated it. They got it or didn’t. For Christo and Jeanne-Claude, the arguments only added to the art,” Neri writes. Haidle’s vivacious, stylized mixed-media illustrations underscore a sense of the duo’s energy, inquisitiveness, and determination; the visuals, which portray background characters with varying skin tones, culminate with expansive spreads depicting the couple’s remarkable, ephemeral outdoor work. It’s a wonderful tribute to coupledom, collaboration, and creativity that offers conceptual thoughts about art: “When people had only two weeks to experience it, it became even more special. Was it really ever there, or was it all a dream?” A brief biography and author’s note conclude. Ages 6–9. (Mar.)