Tommy cant wait to start his art class at school. But once there, he is surprised to find rules! His art teacher wants him to copy her drawing, and he wants to create his own. Full color. nTommy knows he wants to be an artist when he grows up. He cant wait to get to school and have real art lessons. When Tommy gets to school and finds out that the art lessons are full of rules, he is surprised and dismayed. How the wise art teacher finds a way to give Tommy the freedom to create and stay within the rules makes a wonderfully perceptive picture book about growing up and keeping ones individuality. nTomie dePaola is the author and illustrator of many beloved books for children, including the Caldecott Honor Book Strega Nona. Fans of all ages will be pleased to hear that The Art Lesson is, in fact, based on the artists own experiences growing up, and offers a welcome glimpse into his past. This bright picture book is as covered with drawings as the walls of Tommys parents and grandparents houses, and sends an inspirational message to budding artists and individualists. Break out the crayonsn