The landscape of the coal-mining English town where Ted Harrison grew up was a far cry from the paintings of colorful horizons that would define his art. Harrison developed his distinctive style after vowing to create only joyful images ("There's enough sadness and misery in the world without hanging it on our walls") and moving to the Yukon to teach Cree second graders. Ruurs and Gibson eloquently describe his artistic awakening ("His heart yearned to use the free lines of nature around him, teasing him with their changing colours and shapes"), while reader-directed captions encourage children to study and reflect on his work. Ages 5–8. (Mar.)

Readers will be transported into the world of Ted Harrison's Canadian North via this well-organized and accessible biography of the celebrated Canadian artist. The numerous striking reproductions of Harrison's paintings and archival photos pair well with the informative text to explore his childhood, travels, career, and artistic inspirations. A smattering of prompting questions and comments accompany many of the vibrant images, encouraging students to explore the artist's style. Teachers and librarians could easily pair this biography with any of Harrison's picture books for a study of the iconic artist and initial introduction to the Yukon. In light of Harrison's death in January 2015, this beautiful book also serves as a timely tribute. Index.

Gr 3–6—An outstanding, well-organized biography about the life of Ted Harrison, one of Canada's most recognized and popular painters. The book chronicles the man's life, from his birth in the coal mining town of Wingate, County Durham, England, where his father gave him pencil and paper and told him to draw; to art school and military service post-World War II, which gave him the opportunity to see the world; to teaching art in Malaysia; and finally immigrating to Canada and combining all the designs and techniques he had seen around the world and finding his own style. Harrison vowed that his paintings would only depict positive images. He developed a colorful, vibrant technique that reflected the joys of life. While many love his work, others are more critical. However, Harrison remains upbeat: "'We must be who we are in everything we do, no matter what others say.'" This book is filled with quotes from Harrison and examples of his work, all demonstrating his love for vivid colors and flowing lines. VERDICT A joy to look at and an inspiration to read.—Paula Huddy, The Blake School-Highcroft Campus, Wayzata, MN