Inkblot

Gr 3—9—Peot takes inkblots out of the psychology class and into the art room. After a short introduction, she gives basic instructions for creating inkblots. She shows variations and explains how to use the form as the basis for more finished projects. Finally, she suggests that readers create a sketchbook and explains how to use inkblot art as a starting point for creative writing. Each project is presented in standard format, with a supply list and step-by-step instructions. The materials are readily available at art supply stores, and the clearly written instructions are infused with encouragement. Peot's enthusiasm is contagious and her ideas about using images to develop creativity are intriguing. In addition to the projects, the author includes interesting sidebars that introduce "inkblot heroes," including Rorschach, who created the psychological test. The book is illustrated with color photographs of art done by the author and by children. For some projects, the illustrations show progressive stages of the creative process, while other pages contain a sampling of finished products. The book is handsomely designed with a variety of background and font colors and printed on high-quality glossy paper. As Emberley popularized fingerprint art in Ed Emberley's Complete Funprint Drawing Book, (Little, Brown, 2002), this book is likely to make teachers and artists catch the inkblot bug.—Donna Cardon, Provo City Library, UT