Saturday, March 2, 2013

Gatsby's Grand Adventures

Winslow Homer's famous painting, Snap the Whip, portrays boys playing a game that was popular with kids over 100 years ago. In this book for kids Gatsby the cat has the magical ability to jump into paintings at night. But if he doesn't get back into his own world before dawn, the art will be changed and that's what happens in Snap the Whip. Gatsby tries several times to return into the painting and correct the changes that happened because of his visits, but keeps being delayed by his adventures until it's too late.

The author, Barbara Cairns, does a wonderful job of getting kids interested in this famous work of art and young readers from seven to twelve years old will enjoy the book. There's interesting information about the Winslow Homer that can be used in school reports at the end.

The illustrations by Eugene Ruble add to the charm and will encourage younger kids to enjoy hearing the story read aloud.

I have a feeling Gatsby's Grand Adventures is only the first book about this magical cat.

12 comments:

Susan Hornbach said...

"Gatsby's Grand Adventures" sounds like a keeper for any child's library. Thanks for sharing Jan.

Janet Ann Collins said...

Thank you, Susan.

BarbaraB said...

I do enjoy reading reviews of this clever and useful book, as I enjoyed reviewing it on my blog as well.
Thanks, Janet Ann.

penelope anne cole said...

HI Jan, I like the book/series concept -- introducing kids to great works of art in a series of fun adventures. Wishing Barbara much success.

Janet Ann Collins said...

Thanks, Penelope.

Donna J. Shepherd said...

Very imaginative!

Janet Ann Collins said...

Yes, it is, Donna. And kids need to use their imaginations.

Unknown said...

This looks so adorable. I love all the clever contrivances to get kids, animals from one world to another...All best wishes on this!

Janet Ann Collins said...

Thanks, Nancy.

Barbara Cairns said...

Thanks to all for your support of Gatsby the art gallery cat. Watch for him in a Renoir painting next!

Janet Ann Collins said...

Barbara, that sounds cool!

Evie said...

As an Elementary teacher I can see every teacher wanting a copy of this marvelous story of Gatsby. Evie Hjartarson