Book Details
Written by
Illustrated by
Genre
More details
See more book reviews

The Dot (by Peter H. Reynolds)

common sense media says

Student gets inspired to unleash her creativity.

parents & educators say
See 2 reviews | Review it

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that the teacher in this story helps his student overcome her perfectionism and insecurity with artwork --- and she in turn inspires others.

Violence & scariness: Not applicable.
Language: Not applicable.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on The Dot

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about insecurity. Why does Vashti think she can't draw? How does her teacher help her get started? Are there things you feel you aren't any good at? How could you get started?

What's the story?

What's the story?
Vashti is convinced that she cannot draw. When her art teacher says, "just make a mark and see where it takes you," the girl stabs at the paper in fury, leaving a distinct dot. The teacher tells her to sign it and turn it in. Next day, Vashti sees her "drawing" hung on the wall in a gilded frame. She decides that she can do a better dot than that and ends up creating a whole exhibit of her dots. Her career as an artist has begun.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

Focusing on perfectionism and insecurity as well as artistic process, the author shows in a humorous and kind way that getting started can be the hardest part in creative endeavor. With expressive illustrations in watercolor, ink, and tea, this elegantly designed book is profound in its simplicity. Showing the patience and detachment of a Sufi, the art teacher quietly but clearly shows the student that art (and by extension, all endeavors) can begin anywhere if a single first step is taken.

Book themes & details

Book Details
Author: Peter H. Reynolds
Illustrator: Peter H. Reynolds
Publisher: Candlewick Press
Publication date: November 17, 2003
Number of pages: 32
Hardcover price: $14.00
This review was written by Marigny Dupuy
 
 

Review It

 

Review The Dot

Hang on! You need to be a member to post your review.
A safe community is important to us. Please observe our guidelines.
 

Most useful reviews by all members

ronitld
parent of 8 year old
 
book that shown how a little encouragement can go a long way
This is a fantastic book that, simply and eloquently, tells us how a little encouragement can help drive someone to confidence and, indeed, greatness. It's especially moving that the protagonist becomes a motivator herself.
Flag as inappropriate 
was this review useful?
helped me decide (9) | had useful details (10) | read my mind (9)
kenjahsmom
parent of 5 and 8 year old
3
 
Our new favorite
Amazingly simple yet offers a profound lesson. I love it as this as much as my kids do. Great illustrations!
Flag as inappropriate 
was this review useful?
helped me decide (8) | had useful details (10) | read my mind (9)

More reviews ...

An independent voice for families
Age-appropriate reviews
Advice on the big issues
 

vote now

Will you read The Dot?

Won't miss it
On the fence
No way

Already read it? What do you think?

I recommend it
It's a pass
 

Great alternatives handpicked by our editors

Browse more books
About our rating system
ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child, some content may not be right for some kids
OFF: Not age appropriate for kids this age
Our child development rating guidelines