Jan Greenberg and Sandra Jordan are two of the most accomplished writers for the young on subjects relating to art. Here, they have written a compassionate portrait of Vincent van Gogh, whose stirring, vibrant works of art never achieved great renown in his own lifetime. Van Gogh experienced emotional difficulties and periods of depression throughout most of his adult life. His relationships with others were often impassioned and difficult. The authors profile this brilliant artist with great sensitivity, and provide readers with the means to look at his art, some of which is reproduced in this volume, in meaningful, insightful ways. Van Gogh’s greatest supporter personally and artistically was his brother Theo. That relationship was preserved through letters, and those letters are part of the extensive works cited by the authors in the research they conducted to create this illuminating biography. (Ages 9–14)

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 Gogh: 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 JOURNAL BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR
A BOOKLIST CHILDREN'S EDITOR'S CHOICE