smART: Use Your Eyes to Boost Your Brain (Adapted from the New York Times bestseller Visual Intelligence)

This book presents excellent ways to improve observational skills BUT the illustrations, both in the printed book and the E book need to be done better. They are too small, sometimes low in contrast or too "muddy" . It is better to look up the artworks to actually see some of the things references in the text.

Amy Herman's third book may be her best so far. Grounded in beautiful reproductions of art pieces and full of thought provoking illustrations and engaging activities, this book is a must read for middle schoolers. smART speaks to 9-13 year olds in their own language about how to more expansively see the world around them, think about what they see, and then talk about it, critical skills for budding adults, and frankly for all of us. Even as an adult I enjoyed this book immensely. It is a quick and engaging read. A not be be missed new twist on Amy Herman's Visual Intelligence.

I love this book because it has everything I need to create short lessons that open students eyes to the world around them. Short mini lessons leave them wanting more. As I have completed some of the activities, students are referencing prior lessons and building on their skills of observation. It is amazing to see how they now understand how different people can see the world in other ways.

My nephew really liked this. I also purchase for my own children who aren’t as keen on reading as the nephew. One son seems intrigued. We just read a little together so we aren’t too far into it yet.

I like the tips given on how to see more details.

I loved this stimulation but. . . the images are too small to be able to observe. I looked some of them up to see better but not all are referenced. For example, the red dot on the woman’s head on page 24 was not discernible at all. Frustrating. This is my observation.

No pictures for practicing brain boosting. Just talking about it.

This book presents critical thinking and problem solving skills and practices through the lens of Art. It is done in such a practical, collaborative and gamified way that students are sure to enjoy and take away insights that will put them steps ahead in not only surviving but thriving in this crazy thing we call life. As a practicing Architect for 30 years I see the incredible value of the problem solving techniques and mindset put forth while appreciating the universal applicability of critical thinking that is so prized in the constantly evolving workplace and life space.