Author: Sophia Gholz
Illustrator: Robin Boyden
Publisher: Running Press Kids, 2021
Age: 4-8
Themes: Bob Ross, painters, biographies
Opening: see full spread below title page image
Summary: (from my library’s catalog) From rescuing animals in his backyard to barking orders as a miliary sergeant, follow famous artist and television star, Bob Ross, as he journeys from his childhood in Florida to his days in Alaska to his discovery of the joys of painting–and teaching others to paint.
I picked this book because: Even though I was never drawn to painting, even as a child I could appreciate the relaxed and soft-spoken instructor on tv. I really enjoyed how the text effortlessly conveys what an emerging artist feels about observation as much as about practice. The illustrations are so charming too! I know creative kids will relate, and those who are not yet sure about their artistic confidence will feel seen. Delightful!
Resources/activities: watch some of his old instruction videos on YT; for adults: watch the documentary about his life; paint (!) or draw something from nature and just accept that what you see is your world!
For more Perfect Picture Book Friday picks with teacher/parent resources, check out the list on Susanna Hill’s blog HERE.
julie rowan-zoch 
It’s nice to see a book about Bob Ross. He had such a gentle presence! I remember him well and when my father retired, he taped his shows and painted every day. He loved it. Thanks for sharing!
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That’s a lovely story about your dad!
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Sounds like an interesting book about an interesting life. I look forward to reading this one!
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The documentary is worth watching too.
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Definitely a book I want to read… sounds like he had a more exciting life than I thought!
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Aren’t most people multi-layered, like onions? 😂
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