Vincent Van Gogh: Portrait of an Artist

This “lively, beautifully written biography” ( Kirkus Reviews ) of the famous Post-Impressionist artist who painted Starry Night and many other masterpieces is “fascinating reading” ( School Library Journal , Starred Review).

Vincent Van Gogh—one of the nineteenth century’s most brilliant artist—will forever be remembered as the Dutchman who pioneered new techniques and styles and who, in a fit of passion, cut off his own ear.

Whether painting a portrait, landscape, or still life, van Gogh sought to capture the vibrant spirit of his subject. Still, fame eluded him. This lack of recognition over a career spanning a mere decade (from ages twenty-seven to thirty-seven) fueled his lifelong self-doubt and bitter disappointments. Today, however, van Gogh’s paintings are recognized as masterpieces, and the tormented Dutchman stands as a giant among artists. 

Vincent Van Portrait of An Artist  has been selected as a Common Core State Standards Text Exemplar (Grades 6–8, Historical/Social Studies) in Appendix B. It features a sixteen-page insert with family photographs and full-color painting reproductions and includes a glossary of artists and terms, a biographical time line, notes, a bibliography, and locations of museums that display Van Gogh’s work. 

A ROBERT F. SILBERT HONOR BOOK
AN ALA NOTABLE BOOK
AN ALA BEST BOOK FOR YOUNG ADULTS
A SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNA L BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR
A BOOKLIST CHILDREN’S EDITOR’S CHOICE