Book Review:

 

 

Bibliography:

Say, A. (2011). DRAWING FROM MEMORY. Scholastic Press.

 

 

Plot Summary:

DRAWING FROM MEMORY is Allen Say's own story of his path to becoming the renowned artist he is today. Shunned by his father, who didn't understand his son's artistic leanings, Allen was embraced by Noro Shinpei, Japan's leading cartoonist and the man he came to love as his "spiritual father." As WWII raged, Allen was further inspired to consider questions of his own heritage and the motivations of those around him. He worked hard in rigorous drawing classes, studied, trained and ultimately came to understand who he really is.

 

 

Critical Analysis:

DRAWING FROM MEMORY is part memoir, part graphic novel and part narrative history, which makes for an interesting read that will keep you intrigued throughout the story. It presents a complex look at the real-life relationship between a mentor and his student, and in the end celebrates the success of determination and joy of living. The autobiographical storyline is enhanced with watercolor paintings, original cartoons, vintage photographs, and maps. Say’s characteristically strong artwork, such as Chinese style calligraphy of his Japanese name, adds a personal touch to his story.

 

 

Review Excerpts:

Sibert Medal Honor winner

ALA’s Notable Children’s Book 2012

SLJ Best Books of 2011 List

School Library Journal Starred Review: “This "journey through memories" uses a scrapbook format featuring the author's photographs, sketches, drawings, and comic-style panels. Say shares his love of comics and the important influence they have in his art. The book is a poignant tribute to his mentor.”

Booklist Starred Review: “The scrapbook format features photographs, many of them dim with age; sketchbook drawings; and unordered, comic-book-style panels that float around wide swathes of text and unboxed captions, and the overall effect is sometimes disjointed. Still, as a portrait of a young artist, this is a powerful title that is both culturally and personally resonant.”

 

 

Connections:

With students, watch an interview with Allen Say- A video interview with Allen Say | Reading Rockets

Have a whole group discussion about any time or experience students might have had with making choices that weren’t popular or mainstream, doing something they wanted to do or felt was right at the time that not everyone agreed with.

Read other books by Allen Say, such as:

GRANDFATHER’S JOURNEY ISBN 0395570352 

THE INKER’S SHADOW ISBN 0545437768 

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