Drawing from Memory is a memoir by the Caldecott Medal Winner Allen Say. The 63 paged autobiography shares the author’s life with children. The inspirational story tells the reader to follow their dream no matter the obstacles. As a young child Allen Say’s father repeatedly tells him artists are irresponsible, but he is the one who abandons his wife and kids.

It is the praise from a grade school teacher that gives the young student confidence in his artist abilities. Later, Allen Say meets the renown Japanese cartoonist, Noro Shinpei. The cartoonist becomes Allen Say’s Sensi, teacher. Under Shinpei’s guidance and hard work by Allen Say, he hones his skills.

Allen Say fills Drawing from Memory with photographs. Sketches and watercolors are drawn from the picture book illustrator’s memory. Young readers, ten-years-old and older, will enjoy the memoir. Not only kids aspiring life as an artist, but all readers will find inspiration to reach and succeed as they so desire.

Drawing from Memory by Allan Say


Grandfather's Journey by Allan Say


Scholastic Press publishes Drawing from Memory. The illustrated story book is 10.75 X 8.5 inches.

Juvenile Non-Fiction Books
Japanese Children Books
Middle School Books

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Note: Drawing from Memory by Allen Say was received from Scholastic Press. ISBN 978-0-545-17686-6