Katie and the British Artists
#4 of 14 in Katie Series
on Goodreads (124)
What’s inside...
Katie is unsure about her future career, but a visit to an art gallery might hold the answers. As she encounters characters from five famous British paintings, they come to life, offering her different career possibilities. Will Katie become an explorer, a train driver, a horse rider, or an artist? This engaging story combines education with storytelling to introduce young children to art. The art adventure features five famous British paintings: The Cornfield by Constable, Rain, Steam and Speed and The Fighting Temeraire by Turner, Whistlejacket by Stubbs, and The Painter's Daughters Chasing a Butterfly by Gainsborough. Classic picture book character, Katie, has been delighting children for over 25 years with 13 titles in the series.
Character compass
Katie
Discussion points
What did you think about Katie's adventure in the art gallery? Which painting would you like to jump into?
How do you think the artists felt when Katie jumped into their paintings?
What is your favorite part of the book and why?
If you could meet any of the artists Katie encountered, who would it be and what would you ask them?
How did the different art styles in the book make you feel?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child's imagination by asking them to describe a new adventure for Katie.
Discuss the historical and cultural context of each painting to provide a deeper understanding.
Compare and contrast the artworks in the book with your child, focusing on color, style, and mood.
Create a fun art project where your child can draw their favorite scene from the book.
Ask your child to express what they felt and thought when Katie interacted with the characters in the paintings.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Art and Culture
Explanation: Katie explores famous British artworks and interacts with them, learning about different art styles and historical contexts.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to visit museums or explore art books, fostering a lifelong appreciation and understanding of diverse cultural heritages.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Exploration
Explanation: Throughout the story, Katie's adventure is driven by her curiosity as she jumps into different paintings, showing the joy of learning through exploration.
Real-World Application: Parents can encourage their children to ask questions and explore their surroundings to learn, whether at home, in school, or during outings.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving
Explanation: Katie faces various challenges as she navigates through the paintings, using her wit and resources to find her way back.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to think critically and solve problems they encounter in daily life, enhancing their decision-making skills.
Example Lesson: Respect for Artwork
Explanation: Katie learns the importance of treating artworks with care, even when she’s magically able to interact with them.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be extended to treating all objects and belongings with respect, understanding their value and the work that went into creating them.
Example Lesson: Imagination and Creative Thinking
Explanation: The fantastical element of entering paintings encourages imaginative thinking and creativity in young readers.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to engage in creative activities such as drawing, storytelling, or acting, which supports cognitive development and expressive skills.