(3) K-3 Illustrated by Laura Fernandez & Rick Jacobson. A new apprentice to Michelangelo, Marco is undermined and embarrassed by a jealous senior apprentice. But when summoned to Rome to paint the Sistine Chapel, Michelangelo selects Marco to accompany him because of Marco's paint-making skills and his loyalty. The long but well-told story helps to illuminate the methods of a master artist; handsome paintings ably convey setting and mood.

Reviewer: Carolyn Shute

(4) 4-6 Illustrated by L. R. Galante. Dense and information-rich, this encyclopedia of the Sistine Chapel contains reproductions of many of its famous frescoes, as well as realistic cartoon drawings of scenes from its construction and important figures and events in its history. Small type, references to numbered illustrations, and uncompromisingly technical vocabulary make this book largely inaccessible, but those who can unlock it will find it a great resource. Ind.

Reviewer: Anita L. Burkam

(4) YA Building History series. The popes who commissioned the building of one of the best-known religious structures in the world, the architects who built it, the artists (including Michelangelo) who decorated it, and the various restorers of the chapel are treated in detail in this history that deals with the period from 1473-1994. Although the information is substantive, the absence of color images is a serious limitation. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Melinda Greenblatt