Blue: A History of the Color as Deep as the Sea and as Wide as the Sky
illustrations by
on Goodreads (1,409)
What’s inside...
Discover a world of creativity and tradition in this fascinating picture book that explores the history and cultural significance of the color blue. From a critically acclaimed author and an award-winning illustrator comes a vivid, gorgeous book for readers of all ages. For centuries, blue powders and dyes were some of the most sought-after materials in the world. Ancient Afghan painters ground mass quantities of sapphire rocks to use for their paints, while snails were harvested in Eurasia for the tiny amounts of blue that their bodies would release. And then there was indigo, which was so valuable that American plantations grew it as a cash crop on the backs of African slaves. It wasn't until 1905, when Adolf von Baeyer created a chemical blue dye, that blue could be used for anything and everything--most notably that uniform of workers everywhere, blue jeans. With stunning illustrations by Caldecott Honor Artist Daniel Minter, this vibrant and fascinating picture book follows one color's journey through time and across the world, as it becomes the blue we know today.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What feelings or thoughts come to mind when you see the color blue?
How do you think the color blue affects the way we see the world?
Can you think of a time when the color blue made you feel calm or happy?
Why do you think the author chose blue as the topic of this book?
How does blue make our planet unique, compared to other planets you know?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they already know or associate with the color blue to create a personal connection.
While discussing, validate all responses positively to encourage more sharing and deeper thinking.
Use real-life examples or encourage your child to draw examples from their surroundings that relate to the discussion points in the book.
Post-reading, involve your child in a creative activity, like drawing or collecting blue things, to reinforce the themes discussed.
Encourage your child to explain their answers or thoughts to enhance their comprehension and articulation skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The significance of cultural diversity
Explanation: The book navigates through various cultures, exploring the significance of the color blue in each one, showing how it plays a pivotal role in different traditions and beliefs.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect cultural differences, fostering a more inclusive mindset from a young age.
Example Lesson: The importance of curiosity and learning
Explanation: Through the anthropological journey of blue, children are encouraged to explore and learn about the world's history and the evolution of cultural symbols.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to be inquisitive, ask questions, and seek knowledge in all areas of life, enhancing their educational journey.
Example Lesson: Understanding symbolism in colors
Explanation: The story illustrates how colors can hold significant meanings and convey messages in societal contexts.
Real-World Application: Children can develop an understanding of how to use colors to express emotions and ideas creatively in their projects and daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Development of aesthetic appreciation
Explanation: By exploring the aesthetic usage of the color blue in art and decoration across different cultures, the book stimulates a sense of beauty and design.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to appreciate and maybe pursue artistic endeavors, fostering creativity and self-expression.