Chuck Close: Face Book

This fascinating, interactive autobiography presents Chuck Close’s story, his art, and a discussion of the many processes he uses in the studio. The question-and-answer format is based on real kids’ inquiries about Close’s life and work, and his answers to them. Close, who is wheelchair-bound and paints with a brush strapped to his arm, discusses the severe dyslexia and face blindness he has struggled with since childhood, as well as a collapsed spinal artery that left him nearly paralyzed at the age of 48.<br/>An engaging feature of the book is a mix-and-match Chuck Close self-portrait section. This hands-on component encourages the reader to create new and interesting combinations of Close’s techniques and images. The book also includes an illustrated chronology of Close’s life, a list of museums where his work can be seen, and an index.<br/><br/>Praise for Chuck Close: Face Book<br/>STARRED REVIEW<br/>"Art lovers of all ages will revel in this vivid, wonderfully affecting book, which is almost as ingenious and memorable as Close himself."<br/>–Kirkus Reviews, starred review<br/><br/>STARRED REVIEW<br/>"Close describes his work with candor and insight. The high quality printing and lush colors of the reproductions make it easy for readers to share that excitement. A nifty mix-and-match section lets readers compare the methods used in 14 of the artist’s self-portraits."<br/>–Publishers Weekly, starred review<br/><br/>STARRED REVIEW<br/>“Excellent-quality reproductions of his paintings appear throughout. A readable and engaging look at a fascinating artist and his methods of working.”<br/>–School Library Journal, starred review<br/><br/>"Chuck Close’s art and life story are the ideal way to introduce art and artists to children."<br/>–Horn Book<br/><br/>"A winner. Chuck Close's honest, personal memoir about his life and work makes an ideal book for kids who find school challenging, who are creative or who see the world a bit differently from their peers. In other words, this one's for most everyone."<br/>–Shelf Awareness<br/><br/>Awards:<br/>WINNER - 2012 Boston Globe Horn Book Nonfiction Award<br/>New York Public Library’s Children's Books 2012: 100 Books for Reading and Sharing list<br/>Publishers Weekly Best Books of 2012 list: Children's Nonfiction<br/>Capitol Choices 2013 - Noteworthy Titles for Children and Teens<br/>Orbis Pictus Recommended Book 2013<br/>Cooperative Children’s Book Center (CCBC) Choices 2013 list - The Arts<br/>2013 ALA/ALSC Notable Book