5 comments about Alternative Kilns & Firing Techniques: Raku * Saggar * Pit * Barrel (A Lark Ceramics Book).

1. I am so glad I bought this book! It has so many illustrations and gives clear and easy to understand directions on how to build different types of kilns. I hope we will build our own raku kiln! The other techniques in the book were so interesting, I can't wait to try them!



2. I was very glad to get this book for several reasons. Jan Lee had some illustrations, and directions included and I am a big fan of her work. Also, I plan to do some of the Pit firing this summer in the mountains and the directions were clear and exciting.



3. I really like this book. The directions are clear and easy to understand. The pictures are great! I borrowed this book from a friend and immediately ordered it for myself.



4. As I perused this book, I got excited to build my own kiln, to use unique kinds of firing techniques and experiment. It will be like Christmas with each try. I love the ideas and encouragement.



5. This is a great book on raku. it gives different views from different artists. The photography is good and shows many alternative ways to finish one's pottery other then the traditional glazing and firing. This book is a must for a potters reference bookcase.

5 comments about Organic Chemistry (6th Edition).

1. I'm in my second semester of organic chemistry and really struggled the first semester because my prof doesn't ellaborate on anything,likes to keep lectures generalized, and believes it's best that we learn on our own through the book. The $250 book we had to buy for the class is so wordy and poorly organized. We usually have 7-8 chapters on one exam (about every 3-4 weeks) and some of the chapters are 80-100 pages. When I study things I like the text or my notes I get caught up on the little things if it's not neatly/concisely/clearly written. This book is exactly what I love. It uses many colors to perfectly keep things easily readable. I had read hundreds of reviews (I'm not even kidding) about how wonderful Wade's texts are and how he teaches it as if you were a little kid--it's so true. You seriously cannnot read one of his chapters and not understand. I never use my other text anymore even if I know where the info I'm looking for is at. It is seriously one of the best science textbooks I have ever had because of how it's formated. He also has great examples in it that are useful....like ones that are often on our labs and on quizes/exams. The end of the chapter summaries are the best thing too. He literally sums everything up by writing all of the equations so everything is all on a couple of pages. I've photocopied many of the chapter reviews because they're such a concise and clean form of my notes.



2. This book is nicely written for someone who is not going to be an organic chemist. It is easy to read and understand. One downfall I will mention is that it is so easy to read, students are many times fooled into thinking that they understand the material. But overall, good features including helpful graphics, summaries and examples.



3. This seems like a well-organized and helpful book. Even more helpful, perhaps, had I opened it for the class...oops.



4. Students in chemistry, this book is clear and colorful to a better understanding of this though class.



5. I ordered a used book for my daughter. Even though there were plenty available when I ordered, I received an email about a week later saying that the order was being refunded with no other explanation.

5 comments about Gardner's Art Through the Ages, Volume II (Chapters 19-34).

1. I ordered this book for a college class. It was shipped right on time and in perfect condition. I was very impressed. Couldn't beat the price either, it was a lot less expensive than the college bookstore.



2. This book is a good starting point for those trying to learn about art history. It's used in many colleges and is well written. - Noga Rosenthal



3. I bought this text for my art history class, and I must say that the parts of the book about European art are great, but it fails with regards to its treatment of Asian, African and Native American Art. If I were a member of any of the above-mentioned groups, I would be greatly offended, because it just flies through those chapters, with a very Western way of looking at things...sad! The other sections are amazing, but this way of looking non-european art is common and I should be used to it by now! Since my course is based around this text, I must say that I am disappointed by my course too!



4. The book came quick and in new condition with a supplement and DVD that I was not even expecting. Over all, this is and great book with amazing picture and descriptions.



5. Although the text covers quite a bit, I can't help but feel a bit annoyed in its arbitrary, and sometimes misleading use of chronology. For instance, Heironymus Bosch is covered in the 15th century nothern art chapter, when it seems to me he should be covered in the 16th century northern art chapter, along with Pieter Breugel and Dürer.
   
   Of course this might be somewhat arbitrary too, but I can't help but be annoyed.
   
   Still, despite this one little problem I have with the text, it is very comprehensive. The works are very well reproduced, and in color too, which is delightful.
   I know this isn't a helpful review, but I'll conclude saying despite some disagreements I have with the organization of the text, it is still an award winning text and well written. Unlike other textbooks I have, I have no problem reading the chapters without falling asleep. This is a big big plus.

5 comments about Writing with Pictures: How to Write and Illustrate Children's Books.

1. This is a great book and really explains how to layout a picture book. Since my college education never taught me how to do this, this is a wonderful book to have.



2. This is the book you have been looking for. I've purchased a number of other books about children's publishing, but this one has more wisdom and more real technique than any of them.
   
   The title might make you think this book is about illustrating children's books. Yes, an illustrator can get a graduate degree from the material here. But the title doesn't really do the book justice, because Shulevitz covers both writing and illustration. He covers both topics together, showing how the text and the pictures move a story forward to a satisfactory conclusion. Quoting from the book (p.29):
   
   "When the actor-stage relationship is clear, when the picture code is consistent, when the progression is appropriate to the action, the picture sequence will 'speak' to the reader. The more clearly the picture sequence speaks, the more enjoyment the reader will be able to get from it. And giving a feeling of satisfaction is essential in children's books."
   
   This book has literally hundreds of example illustrations and text excerpts. Most are pencil and ink sketches, but don't be fooled: the author created most of them specifically to illustrate this book. They do a great job.
   
   I'm done gushing. If you are interested in this topic, buy the book. You won't be disappointed.



3. As a 'gallery' artist moving more into illustration, I needed a text that really told me how to illustrate- what makes books different to gallery works, the psychology of composition, how to plan a book and incorporate words and pictures etc and this book has really done that for me. I found the section on composition and picture space particularly helpful.
   
   This is the book for you if you want a book that tells you how and why. The author hasn't held back information but explains everything with lots of drawn examples. I bought another book on illustration at the same time - Exploring Illustration by Michael Fleishman- which like so many modern textbooks goes on about theory instead of telling you real technical information. It has served to show me just how good Writing With Pictures is and how generous the author is in giving information.
   
   I can't recommend it highly enough.
   
   I have read criticism that it doesn't have enough computer-related information but that isn't something all illustrators need. This deals with the real skills of the craft and to me, with so many programs out there you are better getting guides on every program you want to use to really master them than have the broad, undetailed cross-section inevitable in books about this size.



4. Uri Shulevitz's book Writing With Pictures is a treasure trove of valuable information concerning writing/illustrating children's books. For those with no interest whatsoever in illustration, the book explains how illustrations enhance and fulfill the promise of the text. For those only interested in illustration, the book describes how to correctly construct illustrations so that they illuminate, rather than repeat, the prose.
   
   The book is divided in four parts. Part one defines/contrasts picture books and story books; two, describes how to plan the book; three, explains the construction and purpose of illustrations; and four, provides instruction on how to prepare illustrations for reproduction for publishing.
   
   Although the book could be used for college courses in both art and literature, it is easily readable, enjoyable and informative. For individuals serious about writing and/or illustrating books for children, this book is a must-have resource. It's a keeper!



5. This book is a pleasure to read, and very inspiring to get drawing! His detailed instructions are as helpful as sitting in a drawing class.

5 comments about Vitamin D: New Perspectives in Drawing (Themes).

1. As an artist myself, I have to first be aesthetically attracted to a book before I can look further, and the Vitamin series are truly stunning. In this edition, each of the numerous artists chosen get a two page spread, sometimes four. This spread included a lengthy blurb on the artist and images of their work. All I can do is highly recommend that you look at this book in person before buying it, and I think it will be nearly impossible to turn down after that. Great book to have in your collection!



2. Anyone who would call this art is either lacking an objective sensibility or has some measure of vested interest in the sales of this book. The "drawings" (lol) in this book are fine examples of why mainstream Americans no longer care about the fine arts.
   
   One reviewer actually used the word "refreshing" in describing the contents. Are you kidding me? Refreshing, perhaps, if I had only been exposed to blank pages my entire life.
   
   This is not art. This is the Emperor's New Clothes.



3. Vitamin D is an outstanding publication of drawings from contemporary artists which shows great depth in both subjectivity and theme, the one overwhelming issue seems to be the quality of the reproductions within. Context gives us the reason for this.. in that these are works by CONTEMPORARY artists and as such have not been digitized as throughly as say the often if not OVER reproduced imagery of Leonardo or Michelangelo, so yes some of the reproductions are less stunning however they are more than adequate and what is more important, they are reproduced well enough to spark interest in seeing the original. Artwork can never truly be reproduced, you must experience the original to truly appreciate the pieces. However Vitamin D does what it was designed to, as did it's predecessor Vitamin P, giving a contemporary overview of works and the artists who create them which have yet to be studied. These books are history in the making and that alone gives them more merit than most art publications. This series is more than worth owning and will prove to be volumes you will return to again and again.



4. If you are interested in a wide range of edgy drawings..this book is terrific. It is inspiring, informative and current...not a "how-to" but a survey of all the wonderful and strange drawings being done today.



5. Vitamin D, is complete inside and out. The binding is terrific, the type, the torn paper edges, the layout, everything that went into designing this book was well thought out. Its not only fabulous, but a pleasure to look through. The artists chosen are all exceptionally talented, and each with a unique edge. Nevertheless, all work presented will be a definite point of reference for many many years to come, including the work by my own mentor,and teacher.

5 comments about Paint Watercolors That Dance with Light.

1. This book was of great interest to me for her opinions on different techniques. I especially liked learning more about masking and glazes.



2. "Paint Watercolors That Dance with Light" is a very well written, easy to understand book that can be applied to other media as well. Her explanations are clear and concise. This book would be a great addition to any painter's library. Defnitely would recommend to others.



3. Elizabeth shares with me the meditative and contemplative aspects of painting. Additionally she values pure colour glazes and this has provided me with a new way of glazing, a technique that I love. The book is suitable for someone who has been painting and is dedicated to impovement. It builds on the knowledge that you already have and doesn't treat you as a novice. Thankyou Elizabeth, it is a delight to own your book.



4. The paintings capture light and shadows with incredible beauty and are inspiring to my own watercolor endeavors. The book is a worthwhile addition to any watercolorist's library.



5. HER WRITING DEFINITELY SHOWS HER LOVE FOR WATERCOLOR. IT SPEAKS TO YOUR SOUL.

5 comments about Kaleidoscope: Ideas & Projects to Spark Your Creativity.

1. Yes the book is very visual and nice to look at. That's why it gets two stars. Took me about 5 minutes to leaf through as I'm not interested in personal stories, just interesting techniques, which I didn't find. North Light books seems to produce a lot of these, as I "read" another one that was the same situation (5 minute flip-through).
   
   If you want to read someone else's personal journal about their art, while they showcase their art and journaling, intermingled with maybe 10 pages of actual how-to, then this is your book. If you are serious about learning mixed-media collage, try The Crafter's Complete Guide to Collage by Amanda Pearce. I just finished that one and it's discusses everything from supports to materials in a well-presented manner.



2. I absolutely love this book! While a lot of books just tell you steps (which isn't bad), this one really sparks the imagination. It is my go-to book when I am looking for something to inspire me. Suzanne's writing flows easily, and each vignette gives you an idea of something new to inspire or try.
   From the beautiful art work that permeates the pages, to the ideas to experiment with that will enhance or expand your creative juices, this book overflows with luscious things. It's like your battery has gotten jump-started! Whether you have wanted to try calligraphy/lettering, journaling, mail art, or something else, there is something here to tickle your fancy.



3. This book has so much writing my eyes were tired reading it. A book of articles was not what I'd wanted. I was looking for inspiration on getting more "artistic" with my projects and this book just didn't do it for me at all. I found much more inspiration from Tim Holtz' DVD's and Ali Edwards' recent books. I thought the typeset font was really tiny and should have been easier to read. I felt that the writing was really artist-to-artist and I felt left out, like it wasn't for me or they were talking a language I didn't understand. just not my cup of tea...



4. I've really enjoyed this book. It's different but very inspiring. Some of the "Zines" are hilarious, some are serious, and some are just plain fun to look at and to read. "Nevertheless" (as is a piece of advice for your creative spirit from a "zine") it provides great creative advice, interesting tidbits, and makes for great reading! ENJOY!



5. After reading all the five-star reviews I see I am in the minority, since I didn't lovelovelove this book. I bought it without seeing it as I really admire some of the artists whose work is featured. Before I started to read, I flipped through to see the images (always do that) and was kind of surprised by how messy the layouts appeared; my eye couldn't find a place to land. I have been a professional designer for a long time, and I found the pages over-saturated with images, making it hard to focus, and the colors just kind of dissonant. Although I did like the photos of the stand-alone art as you could clearly see it and enjoy it. Although each page had artist credits for the work that introduced each chapter, you couldn't tell who did what as they were all layered together. I might not be a zine kind of gal, since almost everyone else seemed to love the exact things I don't seem to appreciate. I did buy the book to read about the individual artists creative ideas and about how they work, and I felt very satisfied about that part. But some of the projects looked, well, not that original. This might be because over the pasts few years I have bought several books of this nature, plus have been reading Cloth, Paper, Scissors (a MUST-read magazine with tons of inspiration and suggestions for artists)and there are just so many techniques that exist. I've seen some of these artist's work frequently reproduced elsewhere, and maybe that's my problem. I actually find it more helpful to look at art done in other mediums, like classic oil painting, when I need to get going on something. If you haven't read too many of these books, I would say this could be a great way to start, but you might find it "more of the same" if you know many techniques or these artists work. I find the websites of particular artists more inspiring, actually. Lynne Perrella, whose work I really admire and enjoy, has a fantastic site where you can read some of her thoughts and see journal pages, paintings, shadow boxes, etc. [...] And no, I don't know her!!! This isn't a plug. I would say that if you have a little extra dough, adding this to your arts bookshelf certainly couldn't hurt.

5 comments about Vanishing Point: Perspective for Comics from the Ground Up.

1. I thought I had a fairly good handle on perspective drawing, but this book goes into significantly more depth. (Pun intended.) It provides exciting options for approaching a piece of art beyond the ordinary, and many little tips and tricks on solving perspective problems. Even though it is themed towards comic and fantasy art, I would recommend it to any artist who wants to have a greater understanding of perspective, and more tricks up their sleeve for producing believable and emotionally impactful scenes.



2. This book is good and clear for beginners and the more advanced. It touches some topics I haven't learned at art school. Definitely a book I will be using frequently. All other books talk about the same vanishing points.
   The practical examples in this book will help the student grasp the subject quickly. Love it!



3. I highly recommend this book. It is a simple read with simple diagrams and explanations on how to draw in perspective. i have recommended its title in other reviews i wrote. I think you will be very pleased with this book if you want to see, read and practice from a book.



4. I'm an artist by hobby and have read 8 books on perspective but this one is exceptional. It's not just a book for comic artists but a great book for learning perspective. I was surprised when I received it. It covers topics that I have not seen covered in any other perspective book I've read. Such as, curvilinear perspective. It covers 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 point perspective. I never saw any other coverage of 4 and 5 pt perspective before. Great book for any artist, comic or not and great illustrations. A+



5. When I was able to understand a couple techniques just by LOOKING at the illustrations in this book I knew this perspective book was a keeper! Most of the written examples is concise and clear. Another book I would recommend is How To Draw MANGA: Putting Things in Perspective.

5 comments about The Oil Painting Course You've Always Wanted: Guided Lessons for Beginners and Experienced Artists.

1. I got this book from the library. I always knew I could draw, and I always wanted to oil paint. I have a lot of books on oil painting, but I still struggle. Oil paints are tricky, sort of like playing the violin: you have to learn to control them before you start creating with them.
   
   Now, it IS for beginners, but it also says for "experienced" because she shows you tricks that maybe you didn't cover in other classes.
   
   She incorporates drawing lessons with the painting lessons. If you can't draw and shade a sphere, how are you going to understand a bush? She doesn't just have list of brushes, but she has exercises on how to blend paint with them. Each exercise in the book builds on the next.
   
   It is true that you are not going to paint a masterpiece with this book, but I do think you will say, "Oh, that's the problem", and then you can move forward with your own talent.
   
   She has one whole page on Taming Thalo Green, which no one else has in their books. She has a shading lesson in primary colors, and in secondary colors. She tells you how to dull a color without changing the value (mix it's exact complimentary in the same value, then add it). She explains glazing and scumbling. All the exercises are simple, so that if you are talented or not, you can do them. For example, she doesn't have you glaze a portrait like Rembrandt, but an apple.
   
   As she gets to harder things, she introduces more drawing. For example, when she gets to landscape, she talks about drawing perspective, as well as atmospheric perspective. In landscapes, she explains the tricks for trees and rocks (do the darks first). When she gets to portraits, then she talks about drawing the face. I don't think her portraits are all that hot, but she shows the steps then you can do them too, and infuse your talent.
   
   You will not create a masterpiece with this book, but you will have tools to create your own masterpiece because you won't be stumped with atmospheric perspective, how to do trees, how to make a shadow, etc. Just like you can't play the violin if you don't know where the notes are and how to get a good sound out of the bow, you can't oil paint if you don't know things like how Alizarin Crimson is going to behave differently from Cadmium Red Light. She will help you with this.
   
   She has taught beginning oil painting for 30 years, so she anticipates your problems and questions. Oil will not longer be something to fight with, but something that will do your bidding.



2. Not only was l able to correct old bad old habits, l have learnt an incredible amount from this art instruction book. Highly recommended to both beginners and accomplished artists.



3. I'm an artist (or, rather, used to be). I consider myself an illustrator, but haven't painted in a long time. This book is great, as she discusses mixing colors, selecting brushes, using the medium and so on. This is a fine book!!!



4. This book IS the oil painting course I've always wanted. I've taken a oil painting course at my local community college, but did not recieve the detailed instruction this book offers. I highly recommend it for the beginner painter. I also recommend Color Mixing Recipes by Walter Foster. It really helps you to get the color just right. It has an index on everything from apples to wet sand.Color Mixing Recipes



5. This book was a great starter book and was exceptionally helpful in learning where to start and how to mix colors. It also provides a few step by step classes to get you started. It is a true beginners book, but you'll be looking for new inspiration after you've spent some time with it.

No comments about Let's See: Writings on Art from The New Yorker.