The drawing projects featured in these books (seven per book) contain outlandish figures and kooky expressions. Along the way, readers gain practice drawing cartoon staples like flames, poofy clouds, motion lines, curlicues, and fur while learning techniques like perspective, proportion, and lettering. Good advice, reflective questions, and career connections add value. Though finished examples are extremely aspirational—not only done with a high degree of finesse but digitally drawn and colored—tracing and guide lines are recommended. This cartoon style makes departing from the literal steps easy. If readers want to draw a curly-haired superhero dancing instead of shooting through the sky, it's an uncomplicated switch. VERDICT Easy to follow, fun to draw, with great technique practice.
