Drawing From Memory

Drawing From Memory by Caldecott medalist Allen Say, is a graphic novel that chronicles his journey during WWII, when he apprenticed under Japan's premier cartoonist, Noro Shinpei. The journey starts with Allen being shunned by his father for his artistic leanings, but is then embraced by Noro Shinpei, Japan's leading cartoonist, and soon to be spiritual father. As WWII raged, Allen further questions his own heritage and the motivations of those around him. Through his hard work, and rigorous drawing classes, Allen discovers who he really is. Written as part memoir, part graphic novel, part narrative history, it ultimately presents a real-life relationship between a mentor and student. With watercolor paintings, original cartoons, vintage photographs, and maps, this book is sure to inspire the artist in all of us. Paperback, 72 pages.