Families who loved Before Colors: Where Pigments and Dyes Come From by Annette Bay Pimentel often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child starts questioning the origin of their art supplies or expresses a deep interest in how things are made. It is the perfect antidote to the 'plastic' feel of modern toys, reintroducing children to the earthy, organic roots of our colorful world. Through a blend of lyrical storytelling and fascinating sidebars, the book explores how humans have historically transformed insects, rocks, and plants into vibrant pigments. This book fosters a profound sense of curiosity and appreciation for both nature and human ingenuity. It is ideally suited for independent readers aged 8 to 12, though its stunning oversized format makes it an excellent shared reading experience for younger curious minds. Parents will value how it bridges the gap between art history and environmental science, encouraging children to see the natural world as a giant laboratory of color.
