Botticelli’s Apprentice

Gr 3-7–Mella, a clever and talented young artist, dreams of becoming an apprentice to a master painter. But in Renaissance Italy, such opportunities are denied to girls. The closest she can get is tending chickens and cleaning brushes in Botticelli’s studio. When Datus, the youngest apprentice, passes off Mella’s drawings as his own and earns praise, Mella is furious—until she realizes she can use her talent to her advantage. In exchange for secret drawing lessons, Datus teaches Mella the techniques of Renaissance art, from preparing gesso panels and crafting brushes to mixing egg tempera paints. Mella’s journey is both historical and strikingly universal, reflecting the challenges girls have faced in fighting for the opportunities freely given to boys. As Mella hones her skills, she gains confidence, forms an unexpected friendship with Datus, adopts a hapless and mischievous dog, and builds a meaningful connection with a reclusive widow for whom she is secretly creating a painting. The art is effectively rendered in a Renaissance-inspired style, bursting with bold colors and intricate details. Artistically inclined readers will relish the step-by-step depictions of traditional art techniques, while extensive back matter offers even more insight into the period.