*Starred Review* Could an essential, spirited picture book capture the brightness of a childhood that inspired a lifetime of genius. In two long, lyrical sentences, MacLachlan wonders about the early years of Henri Matisse, who grew up in a cold, grey city in northern France and was warmed by the colours of the paints, fabrics, and birds that surrounded him. Posing her thoughts as questions, MacLachlan distills Matisse's first experiences, assembling them in rough detail to communicate their emotional impact, much like the Fauvist master her subject became. Hooper's vivid block-print illustrations vibrate and hum, echoing Matisse's lively sense of dynamic composition and brilliant colour. In expansive spreads that fill the pages, she shows us a boy who thrilled to his environs, especially their hues, patterns, and iridescence. A central spread has young Henri climbing a ladder on the left while his grown self stands on the opposite side, demonstrating inspiration that has been realised. Thereafter, the child and adult Matisse occupy the pages together, sharing the space, now filled with the artist's iconic imagery, and fulfilling their communal promise. Endnotes by the author and illustrator illuminate the depth and specificity of their research and suggest further reading. Grades K-3. --Thom Barthelmess