Junior Library Guild has chosen BOTTICELLI’S APPRENTICE as a Gold Standard Selection!
This funny, empowering graphic novel is a gorgeously illustrated glimpse into the forgotten history of Renaissance Italy, following an ambitious young girl's quest to become an apprentice to the famous Sandro Botticelli.
Life as a chicken girl isn’t so bad, but Mella wants more. Though girls can’t be official apprentices to artists in Florence, Mella has been secretly teaching herself to paint while tending to artist Sandro Botticelli’s chickens.
When one of Botticelli’s actual apprentices discovers Mella’s work, he threatens to take full credit for it. Why does it matter who drew it if it’s good? With the help of unexpected allies, an important patron, and a tenacious stray dog named Blue, Mella must summon all her courage, smarts, and skills to prove her worth and demand the recognition she deserves.
“Historical fiction at its mightiest. A masterpiece!” ~Betsy Bird, Fuse 8, an SLJ Blog (full review here)
“Botticelli’s Apprentice is a feast for the eyes and the heart. I laughed and cried reading it, and I will think about it for a long time.” ~Scott McCloud, creator of Understanding Comics
"A book that can be read on many levels and enjoyed by a wide range of readers, this is a beautiful reminder that there’s a seed of truth in every story."
~Booklist (starred review) (full review here)
A vibrant, heartwarming graphic novel about two irresistible cat friends on a journey to find their forever home—a journey inspired by the magic of art and storytelling.
Cilla and Betto are two friends who need a place to call home. The docks in Valletta are too wet, and the scraps of food too scarce. The city’s streets are too busy, and the humans too unreliable. But what about the quiet garden from old kitten tales—a place where all cats are welcome, and the humans are always kind? Could the stories really be true?
As Cilla and Betto embark on a grand adventure to find out, they begin to spin a tale of their own—one that will take them through the art and stories of many journeyers who came before, and that will bring them to a surprising destination.
“Works equally well as simple animal tale, metaphysical journey, or reimagining of classic artworks.” ~Kirkus Reviews (full review here)
“…Husted delivers a thought-provoking exploration of the power of storytelling wrapped up in a charming cat package. Sure to spur discussion on how we envision and interpret stories.” ~School Library Journal (full review here)