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Member Reviews

My cheeks hurt from smiling so hard as I read this! This madcap look at how to draw objects based on other objects gets sillier and sillier. Children will be laughing out loud and arguing with the illustrator as the book is read to them. I recommend it for all ages of children as older kids might like to take on some of the drawing challenges, and everyone will enjoy the sense of humor. I hope to read more books by this author!

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"Start with a Teapot" is a delightful and whimsical journey into the imaginative world of drawing. Enric Lax brilliantly blends creativity and humor, teaching readers that the essence of drawing lies not in perfection but in playful transformation.

This book challenges conventional drawing tutorials by inviting readers to see everyday objects as the building blocks for something entirely new. From turning a camel's humps into mountain peaks to transforming a large bean into a wise owl, Lax shows that the art of drawing is rooted in imagination and storytelling.

The simple yet clever illustrations are both entertaining and instructive, making it perfect for kids and adults alike who want to embrace creativity without the pressure of precision. Whether you're drawing an elephant from a teapot or evolving two bean-shaped owls into butterfly wings, every page is a reminder that art is about having fun and embracing mistakes.

With its charming illustrations and unexpected approach, "Start with a Teapot" is not just a drawing guide—it's an invitation to see the world through a playful and imaginative lens. A must-have for anyone looking to rekindle their creative spirit!

Thank you to Lerner Publishing Group and Enric Lax for the eARC!

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If you've ever stared at a blank page and wondered where to begin, Start With a Teapot is the charming nudge you didn’t know you needed. Equal parts playful and insightful, this delightful book makes a strong case for approaching creativity with curiosity, humor, and—yes—a teapot.

From the first page, it's clear that this isn't your typical how-to-draw manual. The tone is quirky and lighthearted, encouraging readers to throw out perfectionism and embrace imperfection as part of the creative process. The titular teapot serves as a symbol, a starting point, and sometimes a punchline. With simple prompts, engaging exercises, and unexpected twists, the book guides you through drawing not just as a skill, but as a joyful habit.

What makes Start With a Teapot so engaging is its refusal to take itself too seriously. It's packed with amusing illustrations, offbeat advice, and a voice that feels like a very clever friend egging you on to make something just for the fun of it. Whether you're an experienced artist or someone who hasn’t picked up a pencil in years, this book welcomes you in and reminds you that creativity starts with permission—not talent.

In short, Start With a Teapot is a celebration of the weird, the whimsical, and the wonderfully creative. It’s a fun read, a practical guide, and a reminder that the best way to begin is simply to begin… even if it’s with a teapot.

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A fun little read that kids will definitely enjoy. The illustrations remind me of The Little Prince and the words a bit of Dr. Seuss (just barely). As an adult, I felt greatly mislead by the title and premise but still found enough entertainment to go through the book.

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