Happy back-to-school time, friends! It’s the best time to learn something new or enjoy a favorite pastime. These books are all about the arts and after-school activities. Perhaps you want to learn a new game, take some art classes or act in a school play! All books are available to check out at the Free Library of Philadelphia.
Board Books
“One & Other Numbers: with Alexander Calder”
by Cecily Kaiser
This board book showcases the work of artist Alexander Calder, while incorporating a basic concept: numbers, for your littlest one! This is a simple but engaging board book that would be well-paired with a visit to the new Calder museum on the Parkway, just a couple of blocks from the Parkway Central Library!
Picture Books
“Making Art”
by Diana Ejaita
This boldly colorful picture book celebrates art in all its forms! With easy-to-read text and simple language, it’s accessible for our younger friends. Not only does this book talk about art and its creativity, but it addresses that block all artists go through, young and old. Take a dive into this picture book and get inspired to create!
“Time To Make Art”
by Jeff Mack
Does art have to be perfect? What colors are best for making art? What if I can only draw stick figures? These questions are asked, and answered, in this simple but fun picture book. Through humor and heart, the reader will learn that art is what you make it! Perfect is what you believe it to be, and any art you create is great. Read this picture book with your little ones and then take inspiration to create art yourself!
Easy Readers and Chapter Books
“JoJo and the Fashion Show”
by Annette M. Clayton and Carolina Vázquez
Fashion, and the creation of it, are an art form. In this early chapter book, sprinkled with illustrations, Jojo is getting ready for a school fashion show! As she concentrates on her creations, she fails to see a friend in need. Can Jojo juggle the fun of a fashion show and lend a hand to a friend? Readers will root for Jojo, and fashionistas will enjoy the show!
“Olive Oh Gets Creative”
by Tina Kim and Tiff Bartel
Olive Oh is an artist, so when her teacher announces an art show at school, she is ready to create! However, as time goes by, Olive is stuck and worried she won’t be as good as her friends. How can Olive be a great artist if she can’t even begin her project? This early chapter book is perfect for beginner readers looking for a relatable story about comparing yourself to others and being true to yourself.
“Yasmin the Painter”
by Saadia Faruqi and Hatem Aly
Yasmin is feeling the pressure of an art assignment, but her inspiration is nowhere to be found! Can Yasmin finish her painting by Friday? In this easy reader, filled with colorful illustrations that bring the story alive, we can commiserate with Yasmin that painting can be messy and that when feeling under pressure, it’s hard to get motivated! With the heart and humor of all the Yasmin books, this title will have the reader rooting for Yasmin and maybe picking up a paintbrush themselves.
Middle Grade Books
“Drama”
by Raina Telgemeier
Callie loves theater and is excited to join the drama club. She can’t, however, sing — so she’s taking on set design! The only problem is that she has no idea what she’s doing. Between drama behind the scenes, Callie’s lack of carpentry skills and lack of interest in the theater, can this performance be a hit? Fans of Telgemeier won’t be able to put this book down!
“Art Club”
by Rasha Doucet
Dale loves art, and he just wishes everyone in his life could understand that! When Dale is determined to start an after-school art club, he’s tasked with making it a success or it getting shut down. In this middle-grade graphic novel, you’ll find yourself rooting for Dale and his art club! This book touches on the importance of art education and its often lack of funding in schools. Perhaps the reader will feel inspired to join, and start, an art club at their school!
“D & D Dungeon Club”
by Molly Knox Ostertag and Xanthe Bouma
This middle-grade graphic novel trilogy is for fans of D&D or any role-playing game. The illustrations are colorful and engaging, while the text is easy to read. Follow along as friends Jess and Olive battle foes as well as middle-grade dramas. This is a fun adventure story that will grab you right from the beginning!
“How To Draw Kawaii Manga Chibi: Big Emotions!”
by Misako Rokkusu
Manga is hugely popular right now, and for good reason! If you’re looking for tips and tricks on how to draw your own manga characters, this book is for you. With easy-to-follow instructions on faces, bodies and panels, this book is perfect for budding artists.
