Joy of Modern Calligraphy, The

Praise

The way we sit, hold a pen, and even breathe can have an impact on how we write, especiallywhen it comes to calligraphy. Initially motivated to try calligraphy by her husband’s fountain pencollection, Lee is spirited as she explains the intricacies of pen on paper. She initially devotesspace to ethereal matters like the definition of the art, traditional versus modern, and thediscovery of one’s style, immediately followed by the nitty-gritties of the art: anatomy of the niband types of ink and the importance of paper composition and texture. Practice is next (loosesheets are gathered in an end-pocket); with the alphabet divided into five groups, she insists onconstant repetition to improve. With well paced and logically presented instructions, eightprojects including DIY plant labels, simple banner, and gold rings on handwritten envelopes helpcreate a sense of accomplishment for novices, with captioned step-by-step photographs to helpensure success. Finished samples displayed throughout reinforce the beauty and achievability ofwriting as an art. — Barbara Jacobs, Booklist September 2021