Sunday, March 12, 2017

Radiant Child by Javaka Steptoe-ADVISABLE

Steptoe, Javaka, Radiant Child. Little, Brown and Company, 2016. $17.99.  PICTURE BOOK.

As a child, Jean-Michael loved art. He and his mother would do it together. When his mom was put into a mental health hospital, he’d visit her regularly and draw with her. As he grew older and moved to New York, he began creating graffiti art as Samoo. This is his story.

The illustrations are done in a painting frame-style art. The text is simple and works well with the illustrations. Included are a short biography of the artist, a note about motifs and symbolism in Samoo’s art, and an author’s note. This book makes a fun read aloud for young children and their parents. 

EL (K-3). ADVISABLE. Reviewer: Kira M, Youth Services Librarian, WHI Public Library. 

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