Show & Tell: Exploring the Fine Art of Children's Book Illustration by Dilys Evans. Published by Chronicle Books LLC, 2008. 143 pages.

Show & Tell is comprised of twelve biographical sketches of noteworthy children's book illustrators. They are, in order presented: Hilary Knight, Trina Schart Hyman, Bryan Collier, Paul O. Zelinsky, David Wiesner, Betsy Lewin, Harry Bliss, David Shannon, Petra Mathers, Brian Selznick, Denise Fleming, and Lane Smith.

Evans states in the author's notes that the book is not intended to showcase the selected illustrators as "a 'best of' list" but rather "for my purposes I needed a wide range of styles, techniques and content." The artists included "offer readers as broad a frame of reference as possible."

Each chapter follows a consistent form, acquainting the reader with the illustrator, his or her early life, literary and artistic influences, career milestones and body of work. Evans includes some esoteric references from the art community, but generally relies on a plainspoken approach to present the material. It includes a suitable balance of information to insure broad appeal. The biographies are of a peculiar length – neither exhaustive nor narrow, they satisfy yet arouse greater interest.

As stated in the extended title, this book is an exploration. As guide, Evans introduces children’s book illustration as a form of fine art. In doing so, she introduces the reader to the gifted artists who create it. In my case, the most rewarding introductions were discoveries. I've learned of fine books my children missed the pleasure of experiencing. Thanks to Dilys Evans, my grandchildren are ensured a greater privilege.

Joe Agner