  | Angel draws a dinosaur Author: Giron, Pavonis | |
| Price: $23.28 | ||
Summary:
After an exciting day at the museum, Angel is inspired! With all the art supplies he can gather, he knows the dinosaur he draws will be perfect. But soon, fear and frustration take root. It's through some emotional self expression and a little encouragement that Angel begins to explore and appreciate the process of making art.
Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews (04/01/25)
Booklist (06/01/25)
Full Text Reviews:
Other - 04/21/2025 A budding artist’s efforts to draw "the best dinosaur ever" yield a lesson about embracing imperfection in Giron’s upbeat story, which underscores persistence and creativity as antidotes to perfectionism. The protagonist’s grand ambitions provide an opening frame, with Angel declaring that he’ll create an "absolute masterpiece" that will "hang on museum walls." But after attempts to draw different dinos fail to achieve his mental vision, Angel throws up his hands in frustration. Quick comfort comes from his two moms’ snuggles and shared wisdom, and when Mom likens the drawings to fossils, the comment provides Angel the inspiration he needs to assemble a work that satisfies. Bold pinks, purples, and oranges lend gouache and colored pencil scenes an energy that aptly conveys the story’s emotional arc-from opening excitement to disappointment to closing pride. The family is portrayed with brown skin. Ages 4-8. (June) - Copyright 2025
Booklist - 06/01/2025 Inspired by a recent museum trip that leaves his mind teeming with dinosaurs, Angel is sure he can draw a museum-caliber dino—“‘An absolute masterpiece.’” At home, he gathers his art supplies, excited to bring his vision to life, but as he draws one picture after another, disappointment and frustration creep in. He isn’t happy with any of his dinosaurs. The eyes are not perfect. The spines are not perfect. Why can’t he draw the perfect dinosaur? Defeated, Angel cries to his mothers. Mom and Mama comfort the boy, reminding him that “art should be fun, not perfect.” Bolstered by their encouragement and a fresh perspective, Angel goes back to his artwork and begins to see pieces he likes. He cuts the pieces out and collages together a brand-new dinosaur. It’s perfect! This is a wonderful story about perseverance and finding beauty in the imperfect. Illustrations in an appealing candy-colored palette depict the beautiful racial and gender diversity of Angel’s family as well as the boy’s strong emotions and childlike artwork. Relatable and encouraging. - Copyright 2025 Booklist.
