Series ~ The Arts

As we continue our series on series, I want to focus on books that broaden our studies of the arts, including music, art, handicrafts and recreation. 

Composer biographies by Opal Wheeler - Wheeler's biographies are beloved in the homeschool community.  Written for elementary to middle school-age children, they help students build lasting relationships with  composers.  Happily many of these have been reprinted.  Wheeler also wrote two artist biographies of Giotto and Millet!

Composer biographies by Reba Paeff Mirsky - Mirsky also wrote a series  of composer bio, written at a slightly higher level.  I was a music major in college and I would have loved to have known about these.

Music books by Anna Harwell Celenza - These newer picture books are unique in that they not only focus on a composer, but a famous piece of music as well, such as Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue.  Included is a CD of the music.

The Art of ____ by Shirley Glubok - This series focuses on the art of various civilizations throughout history.  Written for middle school and up.

Katie art series by James Mayhew - This picture book series is loved in my library.  Katie learns about many artists by entering their artwork as she visits a museum.  Sweet.

Art for Children by Ernest Raboff - Each of Raboff's titles focuses on a particular artist and his techniques.

Artist series by Elizabeth Ripley - Ripley's biographies include many black and white reprints of the artist's work.  Suitable for middle grades and up.

Early Craft Books - This wonderful series takes children step by step through various handicrafts. 

First books by C.B.Colby - Boys (and girls) really enjoy Colby's books which give instructions on topics such as fishing, hunting, shooting, archery, etc.