(3) K-3 Illustrated by Julie Morstad. An imagined first-person voice, dotted with (sourced) quotations, introduces flamboyant Italian fashion designer Elsa Schiaparelli. Beginning with her parents' harsh treatment of her, the narrative reveals a creative woman determined to leave a designing legacy with inventive, playful looks. The watercolor, gouache, and pencil-crayon illustrations depict how a dreary childhood "bloomed" into a color-filled life. An appended note says more about Schiaparelli's accomplishments. Reading list. Bib.

Reviewer: Christina Dorr

(3) 4-6 Rubin explores the life and inventively creative accomplishments of the early-twentieth-century Italian fashion designer known as "Schiap" (pronounced "Skap") in a biography featuring some of her groundbreaking ideas, including the color "hot pink," wedge heels, and the runway show. The stylishly designed book's narrative, supplemented with numerous photos and documented quotes, offers insight into the artist's vision and outlandish ideas. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Rita Soltan