The Secret World of Walter Anderson captures the reader’s interest on the first page. The book introduces Walter Anderson as “the most famous American artist you’ve never heard of” (2). The author continues to be matter-of-fact about things that are out of the ordinary. For example, the author says Anderson “used metal garbage cans as suitcases” (5). The author focuses on Walter Anderson’s life as an adult, specifically how he created his art. His wife and family are mentioned briefly but the focus is clearly on Anderson’s work. His family is mentioned in the context of Anderson’s hiding his work from them. Bass provides an interesting glimpse of how an artist creates his work.
The illustrations are done in muted watercolors. They give the reader a soft, peaceful feeling. However, the illustrations do not reflect Walter Anderson’s work, which was more abstract and used bolder colors. The illustrations also add depth to the story; page 8 shows Anderson traveling with his supplies in a wheelbarrow. This portrayal adds to his eccentricity as portrayed throughout the book. The illustrations also give the reader a glimpse of the landscape that played such an important role in Anderson’s life.
Although the publisher says the interest level is kindergarten through second grade, I believe this book would be better for readers from 7-10. It may not be clear to younger children what Anderson’s job is and the illustrations do not portray is work clearly. However, the book is well-referenced with an extensive list of sources in the back. Also included in the back of the book is a photograph of Anderson’s room. There are also images of Anderson’s work in the informational notes. These connections are a great way to explain to children about the work of the artist.
The Secret World of Walter Anderson has been deemed a Best Children’s Book of the Year by the Bank Street College of Education in 2010 as well as a 2010 choice from the Cooperative Children’s Book Center.
Bass, Hester. The Secret World of Walter Anderson. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press, 2009. Print.
