Press Releases

Fahimeh Amiri with Governor Michael Dukakis

Fahimeh Amiri with the Mayor of Boston - Mr. Thomas M. Menino

From Publishers Weekly

Amiri's (Babri) traditionally drafted, brilliantly colored Persian miniatures illuminate this retelling of the life of Buddha in every sense of the word. Paintings framed with pools of lotus blossoms and banks of swirling clouds follow the young man born to a rajah and his queen, as he leaves behind a life of wealth and searches for enlightenment. Showing several events in a single panel, Amiri paints the prince leaving his horse and servant, donning yellow robes, and cutting his hair. Later, as he sits under the famous great Bo Tree, he defeats a multicolored army of wild-eyed demons who tempt his resolve, and begins to preach and attract followers. Rockwell's (Only Passing Through) accomplished prose ("His hair was black and shining as the night, and his skin was burnished dark gold like the morning sun") blends factual information with fanciful miracle tales. This multilayered picture book can be read on many levels, as a classic quest by younger readers or as a spiritual text that will spark discuion and reflection for more sophisticated readers. Amiri's paintings serve, like mandalas, as a source of much of its complexity and depth. Ages 7-10.

A captivating portrait of Buddha

REVIEW BY KAREN VAN VALKENBURG

There are hundreds -- even thousands -- of religions in the world today, and each has its own history. From Christianity and the birth of Christ, Islam and the revelations of Muhammad, to Buddhism and the teachings of the Buddha himself, it is critical that our children learn the importance and individuality of different faiths. The Prince Who Ran Away is the perfect tool for getting kids interested in other cultures and religions. The story of Gautama Buddha, the book narrates the events of his childhood and explains how his teachings became the basis of one of the world's five major religions.

Author of over 100 books, Anne Rockwell delights here with a captivating tale that is sure to keep the attention of children ages 7-10. Beginning with his prophetic birth in a forest of flowering trees in India, Rockwell recounts the life of Buddha, highlighting the dedication and kindness he came to possess as he matured. Over the course of this little biography, Buddha realizes his compassion for his people. He begs, fasts, meditates and preaches, all of which lead to his spiritual awakening.

The illustrations are what truly make this book outstanding. With the use of vibrant colors, illustrator Fahimeh Amiri draws readers right into the tale from the beginning. The exotic Indian setting is wonderfully rendered. Among the many images that stand out is one in which the Buddha is looked upon by Mara, the Evil One. The brilliant reds, blues, greens and yellows bring the illustration to life. The most amazing image, however, is a picture of Buddha meditating under a fig tree and being taunted by Mara's demons. Each demon is perfectly drawn to depict the Evil One's terror, but each is also charming enough to be pleasing to the young eye.

Amiri, a native of Iran, has contributed remarkably authentic illustrations. His collaboration with veteran author Rockwell adds up to a first-rate story. The Prince Who Ran Away is the perfect addition to any family's library.

Karen Van Valkenburg is a book publicist in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

From School Library Journal

Grade 2-5-Combining aspects of folklore and biography, Rockwell creates a life of the Buddha. By using traditional elements and eschewing more contemporary historically based investigations, she establishes a smoothly flowing narrative that avoids unanswered questions and the need for a more complete backgrounding in the Hinduism out of which the Buddha came or daily life in ancient India. Because Buddhism is by definition a critical response to Hinduism, there are occasional moments in the book to which Hindus might take exception, but Rockwell does not aim to critique or denigrate Buddhism's parent but rather to present Buddhism as the Buddha might have seen it. Students interested in religion and those prone to ponder why things are as they are will find this an interesting and enlightening introduction to one of the world's chief religions. Amiri's illustrations are bright, expressive, and well keyed to the facing text.

Coop Renner, Moreno Elementary School, El Paso, TX

http://arts.utah.gov/arts_education_program/artist_roster/artists/fahimeh_amiri.html