Michelangelo : Genius of the Renaissance

Recounts the life of the famous sculptor, painter, poet, and architect who flourished during the Italian Renaissance.

Gr 4-6-A biography of the artist focusing on his masterpieces while skillfully incorporating information about the political forces that effected them. A passionate, intensely religious, and often quick-tempered man, Michelangelo began his career as an apprentice under Lorenzo the Magnificent and continued his work under the patronage of the Medici family and various popes. Revealing quotes provide insight into his thoughts. Though at times the narrative meanders and gives extraneous information (such as Pope Julius's war strategies), the fascinating details revealed about Michelangelo's life and art overshadow this minor shortcoming. Unfortunately, the black-and-white photographs do not display the overwhelming detail of his art. The book's small size also fails to convey the grand scale of his works such as his painting of the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. However, this introduction provides glimpses into Michelangelo's personal and professional life while successfully explaining his place in history as a sculptor, painter, and architect.-Laura Glaser, Euless Junior High School, TX

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