An inspiring picture book biography of the artist Paul Cezanne, the painter who laid the groundwork for modern art and whom Pablo Picasso declared "the father of us all."

All Cezanne wants is to be a great painter like his friends Monet, Pissarro, and Renoir. But when he shows his works, the professors, the critics, and the collectors all dismiss him: "Too flat!" "Too much paint!" "These are rough and unfinished!" Even his own pet parrot, Bisou, can't be brought to say, "Cezanne is a great painter!" And who can blame them? Cezanne doesn't care about tradition, and he doesn't follow the rules. He's painting in a way no one else has done before, creating something completely new--and he's destined to change the world of art forever. Cezanne's Parrot is a spirited celebration of creativity, determination, and perseverance--and the artist who would become known as the father of modern art. "Sumptuously illustrated . . . charming and informative." --The Wall Street Journal

"An inviting, playful introduction to an influential painter." --Booklist

"Readers will find this portrait of an artist distinctive, useful, and appealing." --Kirkus Reviews

"This is a great picture book that demonstrates the value of determination, creativity, and self-worth. Children in kindergarten to second grade will enjoy the storyline and the harmonious and colorful illustrations." --School Library Connection

"By examining the hard work and frustration that often lies behind what can look like inevitable celebrity, Guglielmo makes a solid case for understanding Cézanne as a painter who followed his own vision." --Publishers Weekly

"There is beauty in the process, this clever book teaches the reader." --Romper