In this engaging, inspiring tale , Reynolds (illustrator of the Judy Moody series) demonstrates the power of a little encouragement. Reynolds pulls off exactly what his young heroine does, creating an impressive work from deceptively simple beginnings. --Publishers Weekly (starred review) With art that seems perfectly suited to the mood and the message of the text, Reynolds inspires with a gentle and generous mantra: 'Just make a mark.' --School Library Journal (starred review) Simplicity itself, like the dot in the title, this small book carries a big message . --Booklist (starred review) A fable about the creative spirit in every child. --Nick Jr. Family Magazine Best Books of the Year This small gem of a book tells the story of Vashti. It's the beginning of a love affair with dots in many different colors, sizes and patterns -- and a marvelous lesson about what art is .

--Washington Post Readers can wonder about unsigned works that lie before us all. --Chicago Tribune In other hands this story about the power of the creative spirit could be preachy and overdone, but Reynolds keeps the voice fresh and the message subtle . --Book Links A wise and delightful tale for all ages. --Yellow Brick Road Reynolds' pictures in this parable . emphasize that all art, from the most impressive masterpiece to a child's simple scrawl begins the same way and by definition there is no right or wrong way to express oneself -- an important lesson for anyone who is learning something new. --Syndicated Column - Lynne Burke This is a charming fable about faith and art. Reynolds's drawings have just the right lightness and whimsy to keep it all afloat in a cartoony watercolor-washed world. --Boston Globe.