BROTHER FRANCIS AND THE FRIENDLY BEASTS

From the elegant, manuscript-style lettering against a serene expanse of blue sky on its lovely title spread, this is a thoughtfully conceived, exquisitely rendered book. In her usual graceful, lucid style, Hodges describes Francis's early concern for the poor, his decision to join them as an itinerant brother, his love for animals, and the cràche he made with the help of the humble folk of Greccio. Using watercolors to create dappled impressionistic landscapes, subtly defined portraits, and enough touches of period detail to catch the flavor of 13th-century Italy, Lewin contributes paintings rich in variety and beguiling effects, such as a cloudlike herd of sheep by starlight. Beautiful bookmaking, fine book. (Biography. 5-10)*justify no*