Fun and Easy Origami Animals: Full Color Instructions for Beginners

With a “key to origami symbols” right inside the front cover, readers can begin learning the ancient Japanese art as soon as they open this diligent guide from LaFosse (Origami Activities for Kids), previously writer or co-writer of more than 50 books on origami. Further inside appear plans for 19 animal figures, including a flapping bird, a swan, a crane, and, for the very accomplished, a hummingbird. LaFosse also dispenses basic instructions for making the types of folds used in most origami figures, advising readers to master these before moving onto full-fledged projects. Contrary to any expectations raised by the title’s “fun and easy” reference, this particular offering from LaFosse is not for children, unlike some of his previous releases, or indeed for casual adult crafters. It will take time, practice, and careful attendance to the sophisticated folding techniques described before neophytes can expect to be expertly folding the more complex projects. However, for those in search of a thoughtful and artistically fulfilling hobby, LaFosse’s well-appointed primer should prove their entry point to a rewarding new pursuit.[em] (Oct.) [/em]