Set during van Gogh's time in Arles, France, this story tells of van Gogh's friendship with a young boy, Jacques, who lives in the same house. As van Gogh teaches Jacques a new way to look at the world around him, the two become fast friends, even brothers. When van Gogh finally leaves Arles, he leaves behind some paintings; but more than paintings, he leaves memories which will last the young boy a lifetime. Illustrated with paintings done in the impressionist style, THE FIRST STARRY NIGHT is a beautiful introduction to van Gogh's work as well as a moving story about the true meaning of friendship and brotherhood.
Author Biography
Joan Shaddox Isom began writing and painting at the age of six. Her interest in the arts has led her to write and direct fine art programs for young people, work as an artist/writer in the schools, and teach creative writing at the university level. She has worked in children's theater as a director and producer, and has had several of her plays published and performed. She has a B.A. in education from the University of Central Oklahoma and an M.F.A. from the University of Arkansas. Her work appears in numerous literary magazines and anthologies, and her paintings have won prizes in the U.S.A. and in Europe.
