Camille and the Sunflowers

Such a pretty story to learn about Van Gogh’s life in a way that is geared towards children. My kids and I were reading this to learn about art and the life of Vincent Van Gogh, the illustrations are really pretty and vivid. The way the story is told is fast and to the point and tells a lot about the behind the scenes feelings of Van Gogh. However I will like the inform any other parents wanting to read or get this for their kids that there is a snippet in the end that talks about Van Gogh’s suicide and mental struggles in a not so child friendly way. I know is very hard to try to explain that to kids in a sensible manner but they clearly just very bluntly stated within the story and text that he cut off his own ear and committed suicide without any warning and then the story ends. Definitely give the book a try but i would recommend to proof read before reading out loud to kids.

This is simply one of the best books I ever got my daughter. When she was about 1-1/2 years old, we took her to a Van Gogh exhibition and she stared, absolutely transfixed, at "Wheat Field with Crows." So when I saw this book, it seemed like she would really enjoy it, and she has. Note that it is not an entirely happy story, true to Van Gogh's life, so it is maybe not for tiny kids. But even recomposed by Anholt, the paintings are still amazingly vivid and interesting, and led us on a web search to find more (http://www.vangoghgallery.com/ is the BEST spot!). If I could only have a few books to read to my daughter for the rest of her childhood, this would be on my list, and hers as well.

I bought this book for my son as it was recommended reading in his homeschool program. My son is not really "into" books but he really loved this one. He loved it so much that he wants to learn more about Vincent Van Gogh and see more of his works. (My son is only 7.)This book is a great way to introduce your kids to Van Gogh and several of his most popular works.

"Where Camille lived, the sunflowers grew so high they looked like real suns - a whole field of burning yellow suns." So begins Laurence Anholt's engaging picture book about the relationship between the postman's son and Vincent van Gogh. As the story unfolds, Camille and his family befriend and help this strange painter. "Vincent came to live in the yellow house at the end of Camille's street. He had no money and no friends." Vincent painted day and night, portraits of Camille's family, the sunflower fields, even the starry night. "But no matter how hard Vincent worked, he could never sell any of his paintings." His work was never appreciated, and in the end the townfolk told him to pack up his paints and leave. "Listen Camille," said his father, "people often laugh at things that are different, but I've got a feeling that one day they will learn to love Vincent's paintings."..... Based on actual events, this simple and evocative story has a powerful message of tolerance and compassion for those who appear odd or unusual, and march to a different drummer. Mr Anholt's gentle and empathetic text is complemented by his lovely and expressive watercolor illustrations, and include reproductions of some of van Gogh's most famous paintings. Perfect for youngsters 4-8, Camille And The Sunflowers is an inspiring introduction to the artist, Vincent van Gogh, and his paintings, that shouldn't be missed.

This book is an excellent introductory tool to Van Gogh when reading with primary age children, especially in a bilingual, spanish speaking classroom. The story follows Van Gogh during his stay in France and the friendship with the son of a mailcarrier. This friendship led to the most prolific period of Van Gogh's career. The illustrations lead the reader along in discovering how Van Gogh was inspired to paint some of his most famous works. The story is a wonderful story that will inspire children to create their art!

Book tells the story of Van Gogh in Arles through the eyes of the Postmaster's son. Glosses over his illnesses (probably caused by heavy metal posioning from his paints). Very apropriate for elementary age, and reads aloud well. Teachers, Museum Educators, parents, or caregivers can follow up the story with an art activity based on his work. Discovering Great Artists : Hands-On Art for Children in the Styles of the Great Masters is an excelent source for activities.