My First Book of Chinese Calligraphy

My First Book of Chinese Calligraphy is a fun and engaging introduction to one of China's most celebrated arts and crafts for kids. It teaches the evolution of Chinese writing, the order of the strokes, the radicals, the four treasures of calligraphy, movements and position, and the five styles of calligraphy. It also includes the eight strokes and writing a character in calligraphy.

Format: Hardback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 26 April 2022
Publisher: Tuttle Publishing

Calligraphy, an ancient art form that has been around for thousands of years, involves creating decorative handwriting or lettering with a pen or brush. In this captivating children's book, readers embark on a journey alongside Mimi, an eight-year-old girl, as she takes her first steps into the world of calligraphy. Through engaging illustrations and interactive exercises, young artists will discover the rich history, intricate techniques, and diverse styles of this captivating art.

The book begins by exploring the evolution of Chinese writing, tracing the development of Chinese characters from their humble beginnings thousands of years ago to their intricate forms today. Readers will learn about the importance of the stroke order and the role of radicals in unlocking the secrets of calligraphy. The four treasures of calligraphy, namely the pen, ink, paper, and ruler, are introduced, highlighting their essential role in creating beautiful works of art.

Next, the book delves into the fundamentals of calligraphy, covering topics such as movements and position, mind focus, breathing, and even how to move gracefully while writing. The five styles of calligraphy, including Zhuan Shu (seal), Li Shu (clerical), Kai Shu (regular), Cao Shu (cursive), and Xing Shu (running), are introduced, each with its unique characteristics and applications. Readers will learn how to draw the eight strokes, which are the building blocks of calligraphy, and how to use them to create a wide range of characters and patterns.

Furthermore, the book teaches readers how to write a character in calligraphy, step by step. From understanding the structure of a character to mastering the correct stroke order and proportions, young artists will develop a deep appreciation for the beauty and complexity of Chinese calligraphy.

My First Book of Chinese Calligraphy is not only a fun and educational experience but also a valuable tool for nurturing creativity and developing fine motor skills in young artists. Whether they are aspiring calligraphers or simply interested in exploring the world of art, this book will inspire and motivate them to pursue their artistic passions. So, grab your pen and ink, and let's embark on a journey of discovery through the world of Chinese calligraphy!

Weight: 539g
Dimension: 254 x 191 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780804855167