Since the 7th century, Islamic artists, artisans, architects and
craftsmen have attempted in their work to reflect their beliefs and
cultural values in the most beautiful way they can in every medium and
material available to them.
A subject that spans a millennia-and-a-half and covers every walk of
life in every corner of the globe is no easy thing to distil for
children, but Mary Beardwood has succeeded in making it fun as well as
factual, exciting as well as educational. Following her successful
title, A Children's Encyclopaedia of Islam, Mary's new book invites her
young (and old) readers into a fascinating world in a way that will
inspire them to delve deeper.
Aimed at a readership age of eight years and above, Discovering Islamic
Art simply and concisely introduces the fundamental elements of this
huge subject - calligraphy, arabesques and geometric patterns. It also
features painting, pottery, architecture, astrology, landscapes and
cityscapes, woodwork and metalwork, arms and armor, science and
inventions, manuscripts and books, and every page is generously
illustrated. With each topic is included an activity sheet to encourage
further engagement, to help children have fun and to remember more.
The book is designed not only to appeal to young readers, but with
parents and teachers in mind. The hard cover makes for a long life, and
the disguised wiro binding facilitates the photocopying of the activity
sheets so that many pupils can simultaneously enjoy them. There are
links to websites and further reading, a map showing the Islamic
dynasties; each spread poses questions - all of which are answered by
closer examination of the illustrations.
This book is not only entertaining and educational but, in this age of
cultural divergence and religious misunderstandings, goes a long way to
helping children understand the world of Islam and appreciate its
artistic treasures.
