Dorothea's Eyes

Reviewed by: Terri Bauld - Louis T. Graves Memorial Public Library, Kennebunkport, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: September 7, 2016

Review

An interesting picture book biography on the life of Dorothea Lange, an award-winning photojournalist. Overcoming personal struggles with polio that leave her with a withered leg, Dorothea boldly marches forward into uncharted territory. She began work in photography even though it was not considered proper for women. Always wanting to blend into the background, Dorothea would pretend to be invisible. Dorothea, however, would see everything. Although successful in traditional photography, she would again moves into a new direction taking photo after photo of the poor and ignored. Her photos of the jobless, hungry and homeless were widely published, helping to convince the government to provide needed assistance. The truth seen with love, was Dorothea's art. Her image, "Migrant Mother" is one of the most reproduced, famous photos in history. She helped develop a style called documentary photography. The back pages include reproductions of her photographs, background information, selected bibliography, sources for quotations, for further reading section and timeline. The timeline and photographs greatly enhance the story providing additional details to supplement the story. The soft and muted illustrations are done in acrylic on paper and digital. An important story of someone who truly made a difference in the lives of many through their art, helping the world to see using their eyes along with their hearts.

Overall Book Score: excellent