Michelangelo features the same general format as Ripley's sixteen other biographies of artists, alternating text and black-and-white illustrations in a smooth, brief account of Michelangelo's life. The illustrations match the text to provide a biographical context for many of the artist's works. Some critics have questioned this formulaic approach, suggesting that it blurs distinctions among the various artists that should be highlighted. Critics have also identified some inconsistencies between the purpose and format of Ripley's work, which is aimed at students in grades seven through ten. These critics contend that the naive biographical speculations may be better suited to a younger audience, while the black-and-white illustrations fail to hold the attention of such a young audience. Nonetheless, the succinct art criticism that Ripley offers should encourage readers to pause and contemplate the illustrations and to feel more at home in discussing great art.