Does it Have to be Art or Academics?

Trisha spends time with her artistic grandma and knows that she wants to become an artist. Unfortunately, art is taught on a cart at her school, so resources are limited. Her teacher sees something in Trisha’s work and recommends her for a special class taught by Miss Violet Chew. When Trisha gets into the class, she is inspired and learns to appreciate art in a whole new way. It brightens her spirit and her world begins to open up to her. She has always been a struggling student, but Miss Chew allows her extra time for tests, to help her succeed. 

When tragedy strikes and her teacher is out for an extended time, a substitute teacher steps in. The substitute tells Trisha that she is wasting her time on art, when she could be spending her time studying, and refuses to give Trisha extra time for tests. Now, the art class is in jeopardy. Will Trisha be able to continue her lessons with Mrs. Chew? Is there any way for her to juggle her academics and her passion for art? Can people only have one path to success? You will have to journey with Trisha to uncover how things turn out!

Patricia Polacco continues to amaze me. Most of her books are based on her life, or the life of her relatives. The drawings that accompany her stories have a unique style, and I can now recognize her illustrations right away. So far, I have been able to connect to all of her characters, whether I have been in their shoes or not. Reading the newest book about Trisha, The Art of Miss Chew, I couldn’t help but root for her. I hate to see anyone’s dreams dashed by others, especially adults. Drawing is something that I struggle with and continue to work on. I was so happy for Trisha when she got into the art program, and I loved her teacher, Mrs. Chew. Teachers can make such a difference in their students’ lives and watching things unfold kept me turning the pages. With the guidance of special teachers, we can all learn to look at the world in ways we never thought possible. I recommend this book to people of all ages because we all need a little magic in our lives, and we need people in our corner cheering us on. Art is so subjective and people look at the same pieces through the lenses of their own experiences. If you haven’t read this book, then you need to pick it up to see the ways that art can help someone discover who they are. You will be reminded of the teachers who have helped you along the way.  This is a book you will want to read over and over again, and the pictures will speak to you!

Has anyone else read The Art of Miss Chew? Or have you read another book by Patricia Polacco (We are loving her books, if you couldn't tell)? What did you think? 

Stop by Friday, May 17th for a chance to read an interview with this talented author and illustrator!

Happy Reading! ~L