Draw What You See

Reviewed by: Jill O'Connor - North Yarmouth Academy, Yarmouth, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: February 10, 2016

Review

A biography of artist Benny Andrews. The author tells of the place in history of this important man, considered to be one of the finest African American artists of the 20th century. Raised in Georgia, Andrews wanted more from life than picking cotton. Fortunately, he was able to finish high school and then enlist in the US military. This enabled him to go to college on the GI Bill once his military service was complete. He studied in Chicago at the Art Institute. A teacher, a Civil Rights advocate, a voice for those without representation in the art community, a helper, Andrews believed that art was for everyone. With spare prose on one page, and a full illustration on the other, this book uses Andrews's own paintings to tell his story, each piece fitting the accompanying words quite well. Andrews style of collage rich in reds and blues are well-chosen by Benson and bring his story to life. This book can be read aloud, used in art class, or for a unit on Civil Rights or the Harlem Renaissance.

Overall Book Score: excellent