There is no unused space in this book—the interior end covers as well as the front and back covers all contain tidbits of information. Also, the pages are filled with reproductions of the artist’s works. Although this series has been around for several years, Scholastic has issued a revised edition that the cover proclaims contains new content. The front inside cover tells readers about important places in Rivera’s life, which match the map on the opening page. Next there is a timeline of his life. It shows that Rivera’s desire was to make paintings that ordinary people could enjoy. To do this, he painted large pictures called murals on the walls of schools, churches, hospitals, hotels and more. His paintings usually tell a story about the history of Mexico. In his youth he spent time in the forest with his pet goat and also befriended many of the animals. He also began drawing at a very early age and he used the walls of his house as his canvas. He knew that he wanted to become an artist so he attended the San Carlos art academy in Mexico City. He also learned from a local artist, Joes Posada, who owned a small print shop. Rivera did travel to Europe and became friends with artists such as Picasso and Modigliani, and they did influence some of his earlier art. When Rivera saw the frescoes in Italy, he knew what he wanted to do and thus when he returned to Mexico he became a muralist. However, there was unrest in Mexico at that time so, he went to the United States where he was invited to paint murals. There is no mention in this book about his wife, Frida Kahlo, except in the timeline. There is a list of museums and buildings that contain his murals, a quiz about him (answers provided), a very short glossary and an index. This title is one of many in the series “Getting to Know the World’s Greatest Artists.” The text is not difficult and the book could be used in ESOL programs. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot; Ages 8 to 12.
