Published by Neal Porter Books
Summary: The two brothers in the title are Alberto and Diego Giacometti, and their four hands created two different types of art. Alberto loved art from an early age, and pursued it with a passion, moving from Switzerland to Paris to become the proverbial starving artist at a young age. Diego had no such passion, spending much of his time outdoors with animals, and having occasional scrapes with the law until his exasperated mother shipped him off to Paris to join his brother. There, he learned how to help Alberto by creating models for his sculptures and casting them when they were finished. After World War II, Alberto’s art became well-known, but Diego stayed in the background. After Alberto died in 1966, Diego dealt with his grief by pouring his energies into his own work, crafting metal sculptures and furniture that incorporated the animals he loved, and built his own following over the next two decades. Includes an in-depth look at Alberto Giacometti’s sculpture Walking Man, an extensive timeline, photos, and a bibliography. 64 pages; grades 3-7.
Pros: A fascinating look at two very different brothers and how they helped each other create their own unique art. The beautiful paint and ink illustrations help bring the story to life. The authors have received multiple Sibert honors, and may get another one for this book.
Cons: Reviews I read started the recommended age at kindergarten, but this is definitely a book for older kids. Nothing inappropriate; it’s just a longer book with subject matter that will be appreciated more by upper elementary and middle school students.
