Leonardo Da Vinci

By Diane Stanley

Diane Stanley's Leonardo Da Vinci is beautifully illustrated with pages taken from Leonardo Da Vinci's notebooks.  The illustrations bring to life the events that unfolded during his lifetime, and it is fascinating to know that he actually created all of them.  The book follows his entire life, from his illegitimate birth to his glorious death in the arms of the King of France. 

Diane Stanley uses a number of quotes from documented sources in telling Da Vinci's life story.  The story flows well, and while it completely and accurately describes his life, it is not packed with excessive details.  The seemingly most significant facts about his life are included.  The layout of the story is logical and accompanied by appropriate illustrations.

The simple language used in this book and the format of one page of writing accompanied by one page of illustration make this book appropriate for young readers.  However, the information provided can also be appreciated and enjoyed by older readers.  The beginning of the book offers a pronounciation guide to aid readers with the numerous Italian names and words that appear in the book.  At the end, the author includes a complete list of her sources as well as a recommended reading list for young readers seeking further information.