Casa Azul: An Encounter with Frida Kahlo

Laban Carrick Hill

May 2010 · Sold by Watson-Guptill

About this ebook

Frida Kahlo's work comes to life—literally—in this magical realist novel, the latest addition to Watson-Guptill's acclaimed Art Encounters series. The story alternates between Kahlo's home in Mexico City, Casa Azul, and the journey of a teenage girl and her young brother, lost in the city. At the mystical Casa Azul, everything with a face talks—including Kahlo's pet monkey, her cat, portraits on the wall. Over the course of the book, the cover painting, Self-Portrait with Thorn Necklace and Hummingbird, transforms from a nightmarish vision of death into a life-affirming masterpiece. This dramatic story offers a vivid reimagining of the life and work of a woman as well known for her amazing life as for her amazing art.




• Laban Hill is a National Book Award Finalist and recipient of the Parents Choice Gold Award


• Frida Kahlo is one of the most popular artists among young people today-her art and her blazingly flamboyant style make her eternally up-to-date


• Ties in to school curriculum in art and social studies

Ratings and reviews

Always been in love with Friday and Diego! This book is a great view of them without the stagnant recap of their life. It is an outside child's view and a great commentary on the hardships of orphans and the kindness of strangers. Life in the house of Frida is just how I thought it would be strange and alluring, I loved it.

About the author

Laban Carrick Hill is the author of the award-winning Harlem Stomp! (0-3168-1411-3), a history of the Harlem Renaissance that Publishers Weekly called "compelling." He has also written Xtreme Mysteries and many other books for young adults. He lives in Burlington, Vermont.