Analysis of Julia Donaldson’s Book “The Magic Paintbrush” – Amber Rose Dalton

Introduction to Julia Donaldson a Children’s Book Author

The books below are examples of Julia Donaldson’s most famous publications.

Figure 1 – Julia Donaldson’s first ever published book ‘A Squash and a Squeeze’ 1993, (Donaldson, 2021).

Figure 2 – Julia Donaldson’s breakthrough book written in 1999, (Donaldson, 2021).

Figure 3 – Julia Donaldson’s initial ideas note book page, a narrative exploration for The Gruffalo, (Donaldson , 2022).

Julia Donaldson is an immensely celebrated and cherished British author, known for her captivating children’s books. Julia has enchanted readers of all ages with her publications, poetry, songs and, plays. In 2019 she was awarded the CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) for services in literature. Julia regularly performs at book tours and in theatre, where she enjoys getting children involved with stories and songs, encouraging them to act and read aloud, (Donaldson, 2022).

Figure 4 – Julia Donaldson in 2011, stood next to her self portrait painted by Peter Monkman in the National Portrait Gallery, London (Donaldson, 2022).

Figure 5 – Julia Donaldson and her CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) award in 2019, (Donaldson, 2022).

Figure 6 – Julia Donaldson with her sons and her CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) award in 2019, (Donaldson, 2022).

Initial Research/Educational Resource

BBC Maestro Julia Donaldson’s course in Writing Children’s Picture Books – Requires a paid subscription.

https://www.bbcmaestro.com/courses/julia-donaldson/writing-children-s-picture-books/trailer?autoplay=true

Figure 7 – BBC Maestro course I watched to learn more about Julia Donaldson’s narrative techniques, (Maestro , 2021).

The Magic Paintbrush Introduction

‘The Magic Paintbrush’, written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Joel Stewart was chosen for analysis as the books distinctive oriental literature and illustration style complements the artistic approach of Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, who drew inspiration from Japanese prints.

Figure 8 – The front cover of Julia Donaldson’s ‘The Magic Paintbrush’ (Donaldson & Stewart, 2017).

Figure 9 – The back cover of Julia Donaldson’s ‘The Magic Paintbrush’ featuring a narrative blurb (Donaldson & Stewart, 2017).

‘The Magic Paintbrush’ Narrative Analysis

“The Magic Paintbrush” is a captivating cultural Chinese children’s book that transports readers into a world where a seemingly ordinary paintbrush possesses unusual powers. Character development can be seen throughout the journey of the protagonist, Shen. The main character Shen, is a humble painter who is gifted the magic paintbrush. The paintbrush has the power to bring to life whatever Shen paints. Although Shen must only paint for the poor and not for the wealthy. The opening narrative seen throughout the first 2 images below allows for endless possibilities to be explored throughout the book.

Figure 10 – Page 7 introduces the main character and sets the scene. (Donaldson & Stewart, 2017).

Figure 11 – Page 10 introduces the magic paintbrush.(Donaldson & Stewart, 2017).

Figure 12 – Page 11 introduces aspects of responsibility. (Donaldson & Stewart, 2017).

Rooted in Chinese folklore, the story offers young readers an enriching cultural experience. Providing an insight into a vibrant world of Chinese traditions, such as the Chinese Dragon. The progression of the narrative explores themes of creativity, responsibility, and the potential impact of personal choices. Elements of the narrative teach children valuable moral lessons and understanding of diverse cultures.

Figure 13 – Page 13 shows the value of good decision-making and impact. (Donaldson & Stewart, 2017).

Figure 14 – Page 15 expands on the impacts of doing good. (Donaldson & Stewart, 2017).

Figure 15 – Page 18 the readers are introduced to the villain of the story. (Donaldson & Stewart, 2017).

The moral themes explored throughout the narrative of ‘The Magic Paintbrush’ resonate closely with the topic of my final major project. It is important to share the negative impacts of careless personal choices when it comes to plastic pollution and climate change. The children’s book I intend to develop will have a large focus on sustainable responsibility when approaching the topic of environmental preservation. Therefore, inspiring children to make educated sustainable choices.

Figure 16 – Page 20 the villains story expands, readers are anticipating what Shen will do, (Donaldson & Stewart, 2017).

Figure 17 – Page 22 Shen escapes the prison using her magic paintbrush, (Donaldson & Stewart, 2017).

Figure 18 – Page 24 the villains story continues,(Donaldson & Stewart, 2017).

Further, analysing the narrative there is a distinct rhyming style that can be seen throughout many of Julia’s books. The rhyme alternates slightly whilst telling the story. The rhyming technique she uses maintains consistent rhythm and flow throughout her work, engaging young readers in an enjoyable way. The predictability of her stories aid in English language lessons and encourage active participation from children and their imaginations.

Figure 19 – Page 25 Shen returns from the emperors prison, (Donaldson & Stewart, 2017).

Figure 20 – Page 27 Shen beats the villain, (Donaldson & Stewart, 2017).

Figure 21 – Page 30 the story comes to an end, (Donaldson & Stewart, 2017).

References

Donaldson , J. (2022) Biography, Julia Donaldson. Available at: https://www.juliadonaldson.co.uk/about-me/biography/ (Accessed: 22 October 2023).

Donaldson, J. (2021) Storytelling, Julia Donaldson. Available at: https://www.juliadonaldson.co.uk/storytelling/ (Accessed: 21 October 2023).

Donaldson, J. and Stewart, J. (2017) The magic paintbrush. London: Macmillan Children’s Books.

Maestro , B. (2021) Introducing: Julia Donaldson – Writing Children’s Picture Books – BBC Maestro, Youtube . Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=koRLe9kQYRo (Accessed: 03 November 2023).

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