Thursday, September 1, 2011

Drawing from Memory by Allen Say -ADVISABLE

Say, Allen Drawing from Memory, 72 pgs. Scholastic Press, 2011. $12.23.NON-FICTION
This book functions as memoir of Allen Say's childhood and the story of how he became an artisit. With an unconventional childhood –divorced parents, World War II, and living on his own at the age of 12, Allen finds his path as an artisit. He trained under one of Japan’s top cartoonists, Noro Shinpei. This story is filled a variety of original drawings and photographs.
I always want to cheer for those who exceed expectations and boundries to accomplish their dreams. Even more so for an artist, a difficult path to take for a successful career. Students will like the presentation variety –some parts are in graphic novel form. There are plenty of interesting cultural tidbits, but they are presented in an easy to understand way. Overall, a great way to present an autobiography that students will enjoy.
EL, Elementary - ADVISABLE. Reviewer: Stephanie MLS graduate.

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