Kephart, Beth. Beautiful Useful Things: What William Morris Made. Cameron Kids, 2022. 978-1-951-83633-7. Unpaged. $18.99. Grades 2-4. 

While adults may be familiar with the work of William Morris, this picture book may be a child’s first introduction to the famous designer. As a young boy growing up in 19th century England, Morris loved the outdoors and enjoyed the beauty of nature. As he grew older, he studied medieval crafts and incorporated them into his signature designs, but with a Victorian touch. This was the time of the Industrial Revolution and many items were being mass-produced with little variety or style. William believed that factories were causing a disruption of the environment and peoples’ lives and advocated for workers’ rights. Morris opened a workshop where he treated his employees well, as they fabricated wallpaper, tapestries, furniture, rugs, stained glass windows and fabrics, created by hand and drawn from nature. He understood that while things should be useful, it was just as important for them to “honor beauty.” In his later years, William produced handmade books and created new fonts for his own Kelmscott Press. In the author’s note, Kephart remarks that Morris laid the groundwork for the Arts and Crafts Movement. Some of his designs, like “Strawberry Thief” are still produced today. Melodie Stacey, a British illustrator, is an admirer of William Morris, and her colorful drawings are a tribute to his fabulous motifs.

THOUGHTS: This biography of a classic “maker” is a good choice for art teachers and for makerspace activities. Suitable for elementary collections.

Biography          Denise Medwick, Retired, PSLA Member
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