Javaka Steptoe’s use of reclaimed wood from Brooklyn to create his art for “Radiant Child” demonstrates a commitment to authenticity in crafting illustrations that pay tribute to the subject, Jean-Michel Basquiat. Steptoe distills the story to become one that children can relate to, especially Basquiat’s wanting to learn everything about art and artists while visiting museums in order to join their ranks and become a famous artist one day too. I think students will also find his study of Gray’s Anatomy interesting while he studied the book and learned to draw body parts accurately and well in order to heal himself inside and out. Photo credit is noted but a bibliography is not and I think this could be helpful for young readers to learn more who are interested in doing so. I like that the motifs and symbolism of Basquiat’s work is included with an explanation of each. Children could go back through the pages looking more closely for each throughout.
Title: Radiant Child: The Story of Young Artist Jean-Michele Basquiat
Author: Javaka Steptoe
Published 2016 by Little, Brown and Company
ISBN: 978-0-316-21388-2
This copy was borrowed from the public library for review purposes.
