Drawing from Memory

Written & illustrated by Allen Say

An artist's journey unfolds amid war, mentorship, and self-discovery.

4.0/5 Goodreads · 57,941 ratings

64 pages· 7,281 words· Est. 1.5 hour read

$24.99Save 5%

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Bookroo's summary

In the midst of WWII, a young artist finds himself torn between his father's disapproval and the guidance of Japan's top cartoonist. As he apprentices under a new mentor, he grapples with questions of identity and heritage. Through rigorous training and introspection, he embarks on a transformative journey to uncover his true self. This graphic novel blends memoir and history, capturing the profound bond between mentor and student, and the resilience of an artist's spirit.

From the publisher

Caldecott Medalist Allen Say presents a stunning graphic novel chronicling his journey as an artist during WWII, when he apprenticed under Noro Shinpei, Japan’s premier cartoonistDRAWING FROM MEMORY is Allen Say’s own story of his path to becoming the renowned artist he is today. Shunned by his father, who didn’t understand his son’s artistic leanings, Allen was embraced by Noro Shinpei, Japan’s leading cartoonist and the man he came to love as his “spiritual father.” As WWII raged, Allen was further inspired to consider questions of his own heritage and the motivations of those around him. He worked hard in rigorous drawing classes, studied, trained–and ultimately came to understand who he really is. Part memoir, part graphic novel, part narrative history, DRAWING FROM MEMORY presents a complex look at the real-life relationship between a mentor and his student. With watercolor paintings, original cartoons, vintage photographs, and maps, Allen Say has created a book that will inspire the artist in all of us.