FAITH RINGGOLD

Turner continues her well-regarded series of ``Portraits of Women Artists'' with an introduction to the Caldecott Honor medalist Ringgold, whose picture-book illustrations are a direct extension of her paintings, fabric constructions, and (especially) the vibrant story quilts that powerfully re-create her African-American heritage. In outlining Ringgold's life, the author includes childhood details and b&w photos that will interest young readers, but—perhaps respecting the artist's privacy—doesn't convey her dynamic individuality; but in some detail, Turner explore's Ringgold's ideas, as expressed in her art, including several high-quality color reproductions (fully attributed) plus schematic drawings that identify the figures represented. (Biography. 6-10)