” Two sisters, both passionate about drawing but with very different aesthetics, learn the value of collaboration. … Anelli’s intricate illustrations effectively drive home Merritt’s message, evoking the protagonists’ varied styles effectively while maintaining the childlike look of both. A pleasant hymn to sisterly cooperation.” – Kirkus
” Susanne Merritt’s message of individuality and collaboration is subtle and sweet. It teaches to kids to express their creativity, while respecting the efforts of others, as there is no right way to be an artist. A love of detailed cityscapes and maps shines through in Liz Anelli’s vibrant illustrations created from paint, pencils, collage and printmaking. It’s a heartwarming and joyful story that will have children poring over each page, talking about their own artistic style and, without a doubt, creating their own maps.” – CBCA Reading Time
“I teach tolerance and difference to a Year 11 class, and asked if they would like me to read to them. They willingly sat on the mat as I shared Grace and Katie. The following discussion was wonderful as they picked up on the visual clues in the pictures. We talked about stereotyping and working with others. One girl explained that it could have been about her own experience as she was the creative one with a very orderly sister. This led to a sharing about gender stereotypes and the importance of being ourselves. As a teacher, I see this as a great resource for starting discussions from pre-school level up. It is also a reeally lovely book to read and enjoy for the satisfying story, the wonderful pictures and the happy ending.” – The Reader: The Booksellers New Zealand blog
“Author Susanne Merritt does a wonderful job at illustrating our unique differences. And, how if we work together, it’s our differences that make our work more interesting and fun. The Grace and Katie story teaches kids that there is no right way to explore art, and it encourages kids to express their creativity.” – Kiwi Families
“A wonderful story that encourages chidlren to express their creativity in their own unique way. As they are twins is shows that you are always individuals first, a great story showing the special bond and appreciating other peoples strengths” – Jnr Book Worms Book Review
“Grace and Katie encourages kids to express their creativity and realize that there is no right or wrong way to be an artist. The topic of map making is woven throughout the story, making this a valuable resource to explore visual literacy. Children will find this story a very satisfying read.” – Children’s Books Heal
“Susanne Merritt puts the points for respecting differences, the importance of being oneself, and co-operation across subtly and effectively. Liz Anelli reflects the themes in her detailed illustrations effectively showing the sisters’ contrasting styles in a suitable child-like manner.”Susanne Merritt puts the points for respecting differences, the importance of being oneself, and co-operation across subtly and effectively. Liz Anelli reflects the themes in her detailed illustrations effectively showing the sisters’ contrasting styles in a suitable child-like manner. The book’s potential for discussion is enormous, be it in the foundation stage, or, with much older listeners.” – Red Reading Hub
“This is a simple, colourful book with important messages about creativity, individuality and collaboration.” – Otago Times
Compilation Lists
Express Yourself! Picture Books Concentrating on Creativity – Boomerang Books blog