"Drawing From Memory" Book Review

1.      Bibliography

Say, Allen. 2011. DRAWING FROM MEMORY. New York City, NY: Scholastic Press. ISBN 9780545176866

2.      Plot Summary

Beginning with his birth in 1937 in Yokohama, Japan, Allen Say tells his story of his childhood path to becoming an artist.  His mother taught him to read at an early age to keep him home, which lead Allen to find comic books and his love for drawing.  Allen realizes at a young age his father will never approve of his talent and love of art.  World War II causes his family to relocate and eventually separate from each other.  Allen is allowed to live by himself at age twelve if he studies hard in school and gets an education.  All Allen can think about is drawing.  He is inspired by another young artist and sets out to find an artist he has admired for many years asking to be his apprentice.  Famous cartoonist, Noro Shinpei, becomes a “spiritual father” and sensei to young Allen, teaching him techniques and how to achieve his dream of being an artist.  Along with a fellow student, Tokida, Allen learns life lessons of his homeland, art, politics, and how to overcome.  Allen Say eventually moves to America and makes his way as a successful artist. 

3.      Critical Analysis

Allen Say’s picture book memoir, captures what his young life was like before becoming the famous artist he is today.  Readers get a variety of information through the unique design and style of graphic cartoons, photographs with captions, and drawings from memory.  Allen’s style of text written in first person gives readers an experience of what life was like for Allen, being rejected by his father, struggling to find encouragement of his talent, separation from family, and finding a mentor to take him in and support his dream. 

The water color illustrations work with the text to inform readers of Allen Say’s journey.  The sequence of events and arrangement of real life photographs connects readers to Allen’s life.  Children will learn of the determination and work ethic it takes to achieve goals and dreams.  Readers will also be able to relate to what life can be like in a broken home after divorce.  The author’s note at the back gives more information to readers who are wanting more details of his incredible story to success.

4.      Review Excerpt(s)

Kirkus Review – “Exquisite drawings, painting, comics, and photographs balance each other perfectly as they illustrate Say’s childhood path to becoming an artist.”

5.      Connections

*Students will create a class timeline of Allen Says journey.  Students will also use the Author’s Note at the back of the book for information.

*Students will record their favorite section of the book with a recording device.  They will choose the section they find the most fascinating.