Not Your Average Librarians Book Blog - Jessica Martinez

Book 1: Drawing from Memory by Allen Say 1. BIBLIOGRAPHY Say, A. (2011). Drawing from memory. Scholastic Press. 2. PLOT SUMMARY In Drawing from Memory, Allen Say shares the story of his own childhood in Japan, where he dreamed of becoming a cartoonist despite his father's disapproval. At just 12 years old, he left home to study with Noro Shinpei, a famous Japanese cartoonist, becoming his apprentice while living on his own. Through a mix of photos, sketches, watercolor paintings, and comic panels, Say tells how art became his escape, his teacher, and his purpose. It’s a heartfelt memoir showing how following your passion, even when it’s scary, can shape your entire life. 3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS Drawing from Memory is children’s biography at its best. This book follows pivotal moments in Say’s childhood, focusing on his journey from a young boy in Japan during World War II to a teenager preparing to leave for America. Say’s decision to recall these moments “from memory” not only explai...

Culture 4 - Native American Literature Book Reviews Book 1: Code Talker: A Novel About the Navajo Marines of World War Two by Joseph Bruchac 1. BIBLIOGRAPHY Bruchac, J. (2005). Code talker: A novel about the Navajo Marines of World War Two. Dial Books. 2. PLOT SUMMARY Code Talker by Joseph Bruchac tells the story of Ned Begay, a Navajo teenager who becomes a code talker during WWII, using his Navajo language to help the Marines send secret messages in battle. Code Talker shows what it was like for Navajo soldiers, from their tough training to the challenges they faced during the war, while also highlighting the strength of Navajo culture and the importance of family and identity. It’s a powerful story about courage, culture, and the role Native Americans played in history. 3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS Code Talker is a detailed, engaging look at the role of Navajo Code Talkers during WWII, blending historical facts with a fictional narrative. It highlights the discrimination Native Americans fa...