Art is what breathes life into a story.
Imagine reading about a character without knowing what they look like. What color is their hair? What shirt are they wearing? Boring, right? This is how some children feel when handed a book without pictures.
Children are curious beings. Their little minds are always filled with countless questions, ideas, and dreams. They look for answers and meanings behind everything they read. Illustrations help them find those answers. Once they know what their favorite characters look like, it will be easier for them to visualize the story in their head.
Illustrations help them visualize a story’s mood, characters, and backgrounds. Michael D. Eastwood, the author of, A Day in the Life of Cowboy Mike and Winston, greatly values the importance of colors and how it emanates happiness in the minds of the young ones. He used line art, contrasting hues, and friendly expressions to create a story that is fun and an engaging way to learn about ponies.
Children love picture books. The bright colors and quirky art style help them distinguish between characters and those around them. Contrary to the famous saying, “Don’t judge a book by its cover,” children’s books are all about creative designs and bright colors. Illustrations are the easiest way to capture children’s attention and help them learn something new.
They Help in Developing a Creative Perception of the World
Just like everyone has a different method of drawing a flower, they also have different ways of perceiving the world. Drawings can help children develop creative perceptions about their surroundings. It helps them understand new concepts and things quickly and in a fun manner.
As creative people, they will be more open-minded and welcoming to the changes around them, shaping them into better individuals. It helps them express their emotions in multiple ways rather than just relying on words.
Encourages Children to Express Themselves
As stated above, vivid colors and shapes help them understand different emotions, such as blue being associated with peace. Yellow eludes playfulness and energy. Pointed lines above the eyes display anger; an upside-down arch means a smile. Children can learn all this and more through illustrations. It can also help them identify and express their feelings in a better way.
Michael D. Eastwood also used these illustrative cues in his book to show the friendship between Cowboy Mike and his pony, Winston. The expressions of Winston when Cowboy Mike is filling his bucket with water are a clear example of how illustrations can help readers understand the narrative.
Children Prefer Bright Colors
Did you know? Bright colors draw children’s attention quicker than muted tones.
As growing humans, their sight is still in the developing phase. So, they perceive bright and bold colors more quickly than beige and lighter shades.
Therefore, picture books with brighter colors are more inclusive and effective learning tools for children than textbooks; this principle is also used in cartoons for children. Michael D. Eastwood utilized this concept effectively to teach children about ponies and pets and social skills, including verbal and non-verbal communication.
Final Thoughts
Michael D. Eastwood has some meaningful messages and awareness to give through his picture book, A Day in the Life of Cowboy Mike And Winston. After rescuing his pet pony in 2016, Michael has been an avid participant in charity and animal rights in his circle. He wishes to spread the message of empathy to children through his tales of pony adventures. Grab your copy of A Day in the Life of Cowboy Mike And Winston on Amazon to help your child learn about pets, animal rights, and friendship. Visit Cowboy Mike at www.pony4precious.org or order his books on Amazon at https://amzn.to/3iW6JgR or visit us at Barnes and Noble.
