A Flash of Color and Light: A Biography of Dale Chihuly

Ages 5 to 9, Grades K to 4

The first-ever picture book biography of world-renowned glassmaker Dale Chihuly—with stunning watercolor illustrations that reveal the history of the art—for aspiring artists ages 5-9.

Travel along with Dale Chihuly on his life’s journey full of curiosity, discovery, teamwork, and perseverance as he overcomes challenges to become a glass artist of international acclaim.

Dale Chihuly’s early life presented many challenges, such as tragic losses in his family at a young age and an accident that left him blind in one eye, yet his resilience, hard work, and optimism taught him life-long skills that became inseparable from his body of work—incomparable glass creations that provide rich material for the book’s gorgeous illustrations.

In addition to the narrative story, curious readers will enjoy additional reading material which includes: 

Additional biographical information about Dale ChihulyBrief history of the evolution of glassmaking A timeline of Dale Chihuly's lifeA glossary

Series Overview: The Growing to Greatness picture book biography features nationally recognized figures from the Pacific Northwest who have made significant contributions to our culture through their work in the sciences, arts, or sports.

About the Author

SHARON MENTYKA is a children's writer and teacher whose stories grow from small kernels of truth and explore common themes: fairness, transitions, and the complicated path to finding your own voice. Her middle-grade novel Chasing at the Surface was the 2016 children's winner of the National Outdoor Book Award. She is the author of Think Smart, Be Fearless: A Biography of Bill Gates, and The Heart of the Storm: A Biography of Sue Bird.

Author Residence: Seattle, WA

Author Hometown: Jersey City, NJ

SHELLEY COUVILLION is an illustrator who works mainly with gouache and colored pencils. She found her love for illustrating when she used to draw while listening to her mother read books aloud to her as a child. Her work has been featured in publications such as The Washington Post, Illustoria and Bravery.

Illustrator Residence:Columbia, TN

Illustrator Hometown:Garden Grove, CA