Bruno Walpoth makes intricate human figures from wood, and it's always a treat to watch him create new life out of nothing. For each sculpture, the Italian artist begins by meeting and dealing with models. After these initial steps are completed, the bodies, lines and forms of the mysteriously attractive men and women take shape from the block of wood by means of his hands. They gaze on with indifference, glance around in suspicion, or carry blank stares. I know I've said this probably a hundred times before, but I'm continually amazed at how an artist can create something that's both unsettling and captivating.
The hilarious "Duckie Duck" by Kate Toms is one of my recommendations for kids learning to read. My son got this book from his aunt in Calgary a few years ago and since then has become one of his favorites. First of all, this is not your average duck tale. This is a story about a fowl who, candidly, seems to have missed the memo on duck protocol. Most ducks quack, but Duckie whistles. Others love to swim, but not him — Duckie likes boat rides. While other water birds fly, he enjoys floating inside a hot air balloon. The rhyming text and delightful hand-stitched illustrations make the book visually appealing to children. So, if you're looking for a book to teach your quirky little kids to read, "Duckie Duck" is just perfect.
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