Henri's Scissors



Last updated Sunday, August 7, 2022

Author: Jeanette Winter
Date of Publication: 2013
ISBN: 1442464844
Grade Level: Kindergarten    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Aug. 2022

Synopsis: In a small weaving town in France, a young boy named Henri-Emile Matisse drew pictures everywhere, and when he grew up, he moved to Paris and became a famous artist who created paintings that were adored around the world. But late in life a serious illness confined him to a wheelchair, and amazingly, it was from there that he created among his most beloved works - enormous and breathtaking paper cutouts.

Based on the life of Henri Matisse, this moving and inspirational picture book biography includes a note from the author, dynamic quotes from Matisse himself, and an illuminating look at a little-known part of a great artist's creative process.

Discussion topics for before reading:
•  What shapes do you like to make using scissors?
•  Who are your favorite artists? Why are they your favorite?

Vocabulary:

•  Weaving - To interlace (threads, yarns, lace) so as to form a fabric or material.
•  Deed - A piece of paper that shows who by law owns a piece of property.
•  Oblige - To make (someone) feel bound to do something or to act in a certain way.

Discussion topics for during/after reading:
•  What do you like to paint?
•  What do you want to be when you grow up? Do you want to be a painter?
•  Where would you like to live?

Craft ideas:
•  The children can imitate one of Henri Matisse's paintings using paper and markers.
•  The children could cut different shapes out using scissors.
•  Check our craft ideas on Pinterest!
including "How to teach preschools to cut," and "Tips for Teaching Scissors Skills"https://www.pinterest.com/readingtokids/august-2022-arts-creativity/k-henris-scissors/

*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions. You can use them, but you don't have to use them. You can expand upon them, or add your own twist. Remember, though, that the focus of your time should not be on the development and execution of a craft; the focus should be on the read-aloud and the enjoyment of the book!