The People's Painter
How Ben Shahn Fought for Justice with Art
How Ben Shahn Fought for Justice with Art
by Cynthia Levinson
illustrated by Evan Turk
Flap Copy Description:
"The first thing I can remember," Ben said, "I drew."
As an observant child growing up in Lithuania, Ben Shahn yearns to draw everything he sees - and, after seeing his father banished by the Czar for demanding workers' rights, he develops a keen sense of justice, too.
So when Ben and the rest of his family make their way to America, Ben brings with him both his sharp artistic eye and his desire to fight for what's right. As he grows, he speaks for justice through his art - by disarming classmates who bully him because he's Jewish, by defying his teachers' insistence that he paint beautiful landscapes rather than true stories, by urging the US government to pass Depression-era laws to help people find food and jobs, and more.
In this moving and timely portrait, Cynthia Levinson and Evan Turk honor an artist, immigrant, and activist whose work still resonates today: a true painter for the people.
My Thoughts:
Whenever I learn of a kids' book that sheds light on art, I always put it on my "to-be-read list." However, rarely does a children's book author tell a non-fiction story in such a powerful way. In addition to the text, the illustrations by Evan Turk (one of my favorite illustrators!) perfectly honor the art of Ben Shahn. Sharing the subjects of art, immigration, and activism in a meaningful way with children is so important. This book is a masterpiece. I highly recommend The People's Painter to readers of all ages. Bravo, Ms. Levinson!
Click here to learn more about the author, Cynthia Levinson.
Click here to learn more about the illustrator, Evan Turk.
