Time to Make Art

A Chicago Public Library Best Book of 2024

A School Library Journal Best Book of 2024

3 Starred Reviews!

Does art have to be perfect? Where do you begin? This inspiring picture book about making art doubles as an introduction to the multifaceted and diverse global history of art empowering readers to get creative.

Awed by the endless possibilities, a young girl begins asking meaningful questions about creating art. Her questions are answered by a diverse group of artists throughout time and history: from the earliest cave painters to the most recent digital illustrators. Rethinking the familiar Western European timeline of art history, this book introduces readers to diverse works from every era and continent in a playful and inspiring way.

Making both art history and art making accessible to all, Time to Make Art nourishes creativity, encouraging young readers to see the artist in themselves.

Jeff Mack grew up in Syracuse, NY where he spent most of his time drawing comic books and building haunted houses in the basement. Since 2003, he’s written and/or illustrated more than forty picture books, chapter books, and early readers. Some of his books have been awarded Junior Library Guild Selections, New York Public Library Best Books of the Year, Bank Street Books of the Year, and various state awards including the Colorado Bell and three Texas 2x2 awards.

Now based in Massachusetts, Jeff travels nationally and internationally to visit schools and libraries, sharing his passion for creating books with young readers, writers, and artists.