Book Review of Imagine!

 

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Colón, Raúl. 2018. IMAGINE! Ill. by Raúl Colón. New York, NY: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers. ISBN 9781481462730

 

PLOT SUMMARY

A young boy goes to the Museum of Modern Art. He is captivated and mesmerized by the artwork in the museum. One of the first works of art that he sees has a shadow figure that joins the boy. As the boy and the shadow figure continue their journey through the museum, they are joined by characters from other pieces of art. They leave the museum together and tour the city. Eventually they return to the museum where the artwork characters return to their paintings. The boy leaves the museum and is motivated to create his own artwork.   

 

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

There is no dialogue in this book. It is entirely told from the point of view of the boy. Raúl Colón’s artwork carries the story as the boy visits the museum and is ultimately inspired to create his own art. The illustrations are beautiful and evocative of life in the city. The book makes you want to visit New York City and go everywhere pictured in this book.   

 

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “A compelling introduction to the power of art and an irresistible invitation to creativity, to boot. Best shared one-on-one or with a small group, with plenty of time to pore over the brilliant images within.”

KIRKUS: “Inspired by the author’s museum experiences, the story leaps off every page thanks to the textured artwork brimming with buoyant body movement and cast in muted colors and striking patterns.”

Starred review in BOOKLIST: “The author/illustrator has combined his love of music and illustration to create a delightful, wordless tribute to the arts, with a magical touch.”

 

CONNECTIONS

* Discussions about artwork can be stimulated by sharing this book.

* Other books related to this one:

Johnson, Crockett. HAROLD AND THE PURPLE CRAYON. ISBN 9780060229351

Spinelli, Eileen. SOPHIE’S MASTERPIECE. ISBN 9780689837159

Brown, Monica. FRIDA KAHLO AND HER ANIMALITOS. ISBN 9780735842694

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