Early on Alberto Giacometti was recognized for his artistic genius while his younger brother Diego initially played a supporting role. But Diego eventually became an artist in his own right, too. This picture-book biography of the two brothers born at the start of the 20th century in Switzerland doesn’t shy away from the hard things in their lives—war, poverty, mental health—which inevitably informed their art. But its primary focus is their journey as artists, and relationship as brothers. Greenberg and Jordan advance the narrative with short, uncomplicated sentences almost poetic in their style and economy. Hadley Hooper’s art is the perfect complement—there is not a wasted stroke, and she uses color to reflect different moods. The two brothers’ distinctive personalities come through in a work that also evokes the times and places in which they lived. In spite of the brevity, it’s well-grounded in impressively documented research, and back matter includes a glossary, detailed timeline, bibliography, and a page devoted to helping children think about a single work of art by Alberto Giacometti. (Ages 8–12)

The inspiring true story of the Giacometti brothers, one an artist, the other a daredevil, both devoted to their craft . . . but even more devoted to each other.

A Notable Social Studies Trade Book for Young People
A Capitol Choices Noteworthy Title

Everyone who knew them agreed. Alberto was the genius of the family. His younger brother Diego was his opposite--he didn't care much for books or schoolwork, and he had no idea what he would be when he grew up. But despite their differences, the two brothers shared an intense bond.

Alberto Giacometti became one of the iconic artists of the twentieth century, whose tall, spindly sculptures grace the collections of museums around the world. Diego was always at his side, helping and encouraging, and in his spare time creating remarkable pieces of furniture, works of sculpture in their own right.

The poignant story of brothers and sculptors Alberto and Diego Giacometti is skillfully brought to life in the hands of multiple Sibert Honor authors Jan Greenberg and Sandra Jordan, and the spectacular artwork of Hadley Hooper.

This lavishly illustrated 64-page book includes extensive backmatter, complete with a timeline, source notes, photographs, and an essay on how to look at a Giacometti sculpture.

A Horn Book Best Book of the Year
A Washington Post Best Children's Book of the Year
A Bank Street Best Book of the Year