The Mystery of Colour: and how we solved it (David Coles, illus Margaux Samson-Abadie, Thames & Hudson)

The Mystery of Colour: And How We Solved It, by professional paint-maker and self-titled “real-life colour detective” David Coles (Chromatopia), invites young readers to discover the bizarre, sometimes gruesome and often fascinating true origins of colours and pigments. Illustrated by Margaux Samson-Abadie, fact and fiction intricately blur on each page, with vibrant, diverse imagery that takes readers on a journey through time.

Presented with a conversational tone, the book’s language is warm and engaging. Each colour is introduced with a sense of reverence and mystery, brushed with humour and insight. In-depth explanations introduce the real and mythical lore behind each colour, such as Dragon’s Blood, a vibrant red believed to have been shed during an epic battle. The often alchemical process behind each pigment will educate and entertain readers – for example, as they discover that purple, a regal colour reserved for royalty, was once made from sea snail ink and urine!

Samson-Abadie’s illustrations complement the substantial historical and cultural information, conveying it through bold iconography and evocative vignettes in harmonious shades of colour. Meanwhile, the “In Art” sections provide insight into famous artists and their paintings known for exceptional use of the respective colour.

While the subject matter may appeal to younger, inquisitive artists, the density of information and depth of research will best suit confident readers aged 7 to 10. The Mystery of Colour is an information-rich introduction to art history, colour theory and the often opaque origins of colours and their lasting influence today.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Mark Johnson is a freelance designer passionate about storytelling across all mediums, and previously worked as a bookseller. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

Books+Publishing pre-publication reviews are supported by the Copyright Agency Cultural Fund.

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