The Dot (Creatrilogy) - Tapa dura

In this engaging, inspiring tale, Reynolds (illustrator of the Judy Moody series) demonstrates the power of a little encouragement. . . . Reynolds pulls off exactly what his young heroine does, creating an impressive work from deceptively simple beginnings.
--Publishers Weekly (starred review)

With art that seems perfectly suited to the mood and the message of the text, Reynolds inspires with a gentle and generous mantra: 'Just make a mark.'
--School Library Journal (starred review)

Simplicity itself, like the dot in the title, this small book carries a big message.
--Booklist (starred review)

A fable about the creative spirit in every child.
--Nick Jr. Family Magazine Best Books of the Year

This small gem of a book tells the story of Vashti. . . . It's the beginning of a love affair with dots in many different colors, sizes and patterns -- and a marvelous lesson about what art is.
--Washington Post

Readers can wonder about unsigned works that lie before us all.
--Chicago Tribune

In other hands this story about the power of the creative spirit could be preachy and overdone, but Reynolds keeps the voice fresh and the message subtle.
--Book Links

A wise and delightful tale for all ages.
--Yellow Brick Road

Reynolds' pictures in this parable . . . emphasize that all art, from the most impressive masterpiece to a child's simple scrawl begins the same way and by definition there is no right or wrong way to express oneself -- an important lesson for anyone who is learning something new.
--Syndicated Column - Lynne Burke

This is a charming fable about faith and art. Reynolds's drawings have just the right lightness and whimsy to keep it all afloat in a cartoony watercolor-washed world.
--Boston Globe

Trying to make a point to her teacher that she has no artist talent, Vashti jabs the brush onto the canvas in a fit of anger, yet in doing so, Vashti sees something special and soon works with it--making her one crazy dot into a real work of art. Jr Lib Guild. 25,000 first printing.