Van Gogh

Literally stumbling across a great artist's work forms the premise for this lively new series of artists' biographies, Art for Children. As young characters track down the source of a Miro pattern on a sleeping bag, investigate the possibility that a family heirloom is a Van Gogh, or chase a wayward dog into Picasso's studio, the artist's life and work unfold in easily digested episodes. Copious photographs, handwritten postcards (the kids get around) and a cleverly quirky layout provide spontaneity, and the attending grownups are pleasant and, occasionally, as in the case of the Da Vinci volume, profound guides. Fine reproductions complement the enthusiasm of the writing, and the prose exudes Gallic self-possession (``Outrageous!'' responds one neophyte to Chagall's flying clock). Serious only in intent, these lighthearted biographies are a distinctive entry in a burgeoning field. A glossary and chronology are included in each volume. Ages 8-up. (June)