Book review: J.D. Hillberry - Drawing realistic textures in pencil

Title: Drawing realistic textures in pencil"
Author: J.D. Hillberry
Publisher: Northlight
Pages: 128

Stars: *****
Level: Mediate to advanced

(please read this to see how I rate the books)

Drawing in graphite.
J.D. Hillberry is very talented and draws the subjects in the book extremely good. Together with graphite the author uses a variaty of tools; different pencils, charcoal and blendingtools. The book is based on combining these tools with ordinary graphite pencil. Splendid chapters on light, values and light effects on textures. Different stroke and blending techniques are covered. The lessons are in many steps and with good instruction. The majority of objects drawn are man-made objects, but there are also a portrait of a baby and a dog and cat. I find the authors greatest abilities are on the man-made objects. The book is very helpful on learning to draw those and will appeal mostly to people interested in drawing such things. Yet the chapters on light and values and how to combine the different tools will be usefull for all subjects.