The Inker’s Shadow
By: Allen Say
The famous author and illustrator of the Caldecott Medal winner, Grandfather’s Journey, writes of his journey from Japan to a military academy in Southern California. Say’s account of being the first Japanese student eight years after World War II is poignant, honest and his life after graduating, an untraditional coming-of-age autobiography. He tells his story through a combination of line drawings, old photographs, cartoon images and full paintings that capture his moments and allows readers to feel his story. Although a Young Adult biography, The Inker’s Shadow would be excellent to read as historical nonfiction, an autobiography, an almost graphic novel or included in an author study. Recommended ages 8+.
Review By: Debra Wietecha