CIRCLES, TRIANGLES AND SQUARES Photographs by Tana Hoban

Although this blog has been around for over ten years, talking for the most part about cartoons -- here's a first: photographs. Here are a few of the photographs taken by the wonderful Tana Hoban for her children's book CIRCLES, TRIANGLES AND SQUARES, which is copyright 1974 by Ms. Hoban. The book was published by Macmillan.

There are no words in the hardcover book, excepting the title and copyright information. The rest of the book is what the title says. Maybe an adult might need some help, but any kid can sort out the purpose of these photos.

“I try in my books to catch a fleeting moment and an emotion in a way that touches children and makes them want to respond… I try to say, ‘Look!’ There are shapes here and everywhere, things to count, colors to see and always, surprises.”

Born in Philadelphia, Tana Hoban (1917-2006) was originally determined to become an illustrator. When she enrolled in the School of Design for Women (now called the Moore College of Art and Design), she became enamored with photography.

From her bio:

After graduating, she worked as a freelance graphic artist and illustrator. Her pictures appeared in Life, Look, McCall's and other magazines in the 1940s. Hoban did not publish her first children’s book until 1970, with SHAPES AND THINGS. Since then, Hoban published more than 50 books. More than 2 million copies of her books have been sold worldwide!

Here are a few of her photos from CIRCLES, TRIANGLES AND SQUARES. They are lovely and reminded me that the thrill in learning is discovering. Ms. Hoban believe in the power of the image. The book is long out of print and deserves to be reprinted.