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The Magic Paintbrush

by Julia Donaldson, illustrated by Joel Stewart

Interest age: 2+
Reading age: 6+

Published by Macmillan Children's Books, 2004

  • Around the world
  • Picture books
  • Poetry and rhyme

About this book

When Shen is given a magic paintbrush, she promises only to use it for the good of the poor. But how will she avoid painting for the greedy emperor? Follow her fable through rhyming stanzas and sensitive ink illustrations which weave the story together.
 
A traditional Chinese tale celebrating creativity, imagination and courage in the face of adversity. A story that will appeal to younger and older children alike.

About the author

Julia Donaldson is one of today's most popular writers. Her bestselling titles include The Gruffalo, The Gruffalo's Child and Room on the Broom. Although she is best-known for her picture books, Julia also writes longer novels, plays and songs. She lives in Glasgow and spends a lot of time on stage performing her brilliant sell-out singalong shows!

Julia Donaldson was the Children's Laureate 2011-13.

About the illustrator

Joel Stewart was brought up in a commune in the wilds of Yorkshire. From an early age he was knocked sideways by stories, and invariably lay on the floor drawing pictures to recover. Later, in the year 2000, he graduated with a first class degree in Illustration from Falmouth College of Art. Ever since graduating (and slightly before) he has been writing and drawing for a living, and has recently moved into animation design and directing for television (while not forgetting books!). He also plays a variety of musical instruments and lives with them and some fish in London.

Joel was selected as one of Book Trust's Best New Illustrators in 2008.

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