Nina Laden

Through the humorous rivalry of Pigasso and Mootisse, who unwittingly collaborate on what proves a colorful masterpiece of modern art, children learn about artistic style and the possibility of turning conflict into friendship.

When Pigasso Met Mootisse

Sarah Sammis

When Pigasso Met Mootisse by Nina Laden introduces children to painters Picasso and Matisse. But to be silly Picasso is a pig drawn in a Cubist style. Matisse is a bull and drawn in the style of Matisse's work at the end of his career.

Let's step aside from the historical figures and look at the book by itself. It's the story of a rivalry between two headstrong artists with very different but equally strong opinions of what good art is. They get so sick of the competition that they seek some peace and quiet. Except that they end up as across the street neighbors and have to come to an understanding.

By itself it's a colorful, humorous, over the top book with a heartwarming ending. Harriet likes the story for all those reasons. But it's such a silly story that she doesn't want to believe that the book is based (albeit loosely) on real people.

When Pigasso Met Mootisse

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