I knew I was going to like this book as soon as I turned to the opening pages and say the illustrator's drawing of Washington looking like he'd rather be just about anywhere rather then sitting in that artist's studio. As it turned out, my reaction was right. He'd have rather been out riding. In fact, this was his second brush with artist Stuart and he hadn't enjoyed the first, either. But, like Stuart, he did understand the power of art.
And, so the sitting began. Stuart, known for his easy manner, after a shaky first session, eventually found ways to relax his subject. That worked and eventually we got the painting we're now familiar with on our dollar bills. The book explains why that rendering is facing the opposite direction, not to mention that Gilbert Stuart would go on to paint the next five presidents, too. The illustrations are fun and I liked the illustrator's interpretation of Stuart's style and colors. One of the things I found most interesting, one that added a great deal of information, was the timeline included at the end that combined Stuart and Washington's lives into one timeline, showing where each was at different times in their lives. The author also includes a solid list of selected books for more information and source notes.
Bottom line, an interesting, fun read that reveals a side of George Washington few know. I liked learning a bit about his human side, so to speak, as opposed to the engraved image his time with Stuart would produce. Teachers, in particular, should find this a welcome addition to their history shelves and, for that matter, those with an interest in art history should enjoy it, too. You do learn about Stuart as a human, too, not just as an artist. Thanks #NetGalley and #AstraPublishingHouse - #CalkinsCreek for introducing me to both of these men (and Martha) as real people, not just names in a history book.
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