Book Review: How to Draw: Easy Step-by-Step Drawings! (Dover How to Draw)
A Masterclass in Simplicity: Review of How to Draw: Easy Step-by-Step Drawings! by Barbara Soloff Levy
🎨 Introduction: Why This Book Stands Out
If you’ve ever stared at a blank page, paralyzed by the fear of drawing even a simple stick figure, Barbara Soloff Levy’s How to Draw: Easy Step-by-Step Drawings! might just be the gentle nudge you need. This Dover guide is a refreshingly straightforward, no-frills introduction to drawing that strips away intimidation and replaces it with confidence.
Unlike many art books that overwhelm beginners with complex techniques or dense theory, Levy’s approach is disarmingly simple. Whether you’re a parent looking for a fun activity with kids, a teacher seeking classroom resources, or an adult rediscovering a childhood passion, this book delivers on its promise: easy, step-by-step drawings anyone can follow.
But does it hold up under scrutiny? Let’s dive deep into what makes this book work—and where it might fall short for some.
📖 Book Overview: What’s Inside?
How to Draw: Easy Step-by-Step Drawings! is a compact, 64-page workbook designed to teach absolute beginners how to sketch a variety of subjects. The book is divided into simple, incremental lessons, each focusing on a different object, animal, or figure.
Key Features:
✔ Step-by-Step Breakdowns – Each drawing is deconstructed into 4-6 manageable steps.
✔ Diverse Subjects – From dogs and cats to cars and clowns, the variety keeps learning fresh.
✔ Minimalist Style – Clean, uncluttered pages prevent visual overload.
✔ Encouraging Tone – No intimidating jargon; just clear, friendly instructions.
Unlike more advanced drawing manuals, Levy’s book doesn’t delve into shading, perspective, or anatomy. Instead, it focuses on basic outlines and shapes, making it perfect for young artists or those who just want to doodle for fun.
✏️ Teaching Style: How Does It Guide Beginners?
Levy’s approach is highly structured yet flexible. Each lesson follows the same formula:
- Start with basic shapes (circles, ovals, rectangles).
- Add defining features (ears, tails, wheels).
- Refine details (eyes, patterns, textures).
Who Benefits Most?
- Kids (Ages 6-12) – The simplicity is perfect for young artists.
- Absolute Beginners – No prior experience needed.
- Teachers & Parents – Great for guided practice.
However, serious art students looking for advanced techniques may find it too basic.
🎭 Strengths & Weaknesses: The Honest Breakdown
✅ Strengths
✔ Instant Gratification – You’ll complete a recognizable drawing in minutes.
✔ Low-Pressure Learning – No fear of mistakes; the steps are forgiving.
✔ Portable & Affordable – Fits in a backpack and is budget-friendly.
❌ Minor Weaknesses
✖ Limited Depth – Not for those wanting realism or advanced skills.
✖ Repetitive Structure – Some may crave more variety in teaching methods.
✖ Black & White Only – Color could make it more engaging for kids.
Still, for its intended audience, these are minor trade-offs for an otherwise highly effective guide.
💡 Thematic & Educational Value
Beyond just teaching drawing, this book subtly reinforces:
- Patience & Persistence – Breaking tasks into steps is a life skill.
- Confidence Building – Success in small tasks encourages bigger attempts.
- Creativity Within Structure – Even rigid steps allow for personal flair.
It’s not just a drawing book—it’s a mindset tool for overcoming creative blocks.
📚 Comparison to Other Drawing Books
How does it stack up against competitors?
| Book | Best For | Complexity | Engagement |
|---|---|---|---|
| How to Draw (Levy) | Kids & absolute beginners | ★☆☆☆☆ (Very simple) | ★★★☆☆ (Fun but basic) |
| Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain (Edwards) | Teens/adults serious about art | ★★★★☆ (Intermediate) | ★★★★☆ (Deep but dense) |
| You Can Draw in 30 Days (Kistler) | Beginners wanting gradual progress | ★★☆☆☆ (Simple but structured) | ★★★★☆ (Encouraging tone) |
Levy’s book is the most accessible but the least advanced—ideal for casual learners.
❤️ Personal Experience & Emotional Impact
As someone who once struggled to draw a convincing stick figure, this book was a game-changer. The first time I successfully sketched a dog using Levy’s steps, I felt a rush of “I can actually do this!”—a feeling many beginners crave.
It’s not about creating masterpieces; it’s about removing fear and making art approachable. That’s where this book shines.
🎯 Who Should Read This? (Target Audience)
✔ Parents – Great for bonding over art with kids.
✔ Elementary Teachers – Perfect for classroom activities.
✔ First-Time Artists – Builds foundational confidence.
✖ Advanced Artists – Too simplistic for skill-building.
🔗 Get the Book
Ready to start your drawing journey? Grab your copy here:
🔗 Amazon
💬 Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
How to Draw: Easy Step-by-Step Drawings! is like training wheels for aspiring artists—simple, supportive, and effective. It won’t turn you into Da Vinci, but it will help you enjoy the process of creating.
For its price and purpose, it’s a fantastic starting point.
What about you? Have you tried this book? What was your first “I did it!” drawing moment? Share your thoughts below! 🎨✨
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