Reader Ratings: 7
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How did Patricia Polacco discover she was an artist?After spending the summer with her artist grandmother, Trisha knows she wants to be an artist, too. She's thrilled when her sketches get her into Miss Chew's special art class at the high school. A substitute teacher tells her she's wasting time on art when she should be studying—but fortunately, this is one battle that Miss Chew and Trisha are up for!This true story shows just how important a teacher can be in a child's life—and celebrates the power of art itself.
Published: April 12, 2012 by Penguin Press
Genre: Education & Reference, Children's Books. Fiction. 32 pages
The paired lessons—of art as a crucial element in education and of the importance of recognizing different learning styles—come through clearly, leavened by Polacco's use of color and gesture.
Full ReviewThe story and illustrations are both powerful and captivating; this book is a true delight.
Full ReviewThe joy of artistic creation and the value of teachers who are willing to look outside the box come through clearly in the first-person narrative and Polacco’s fluid illustrations.
Full ReviewUnless you are a substitute teacher, you will absolutely love everything about this book – not only do you need it in your library, but you need to read it for faculty meeting! What a lovely piece of inspiration.
Full ReviewI love this book because it is very inspiring, enlightening and affirming.
Full ReviewPolacco's detailed paintings and precise recalling of a memorable time in her youth make "The Art of Miss Chew" a beautifully told story and an important ode to art teachers everywhere.
Full ReviewLovers of Thank You, Mr. Falker and The Junkyard Wonders I bring tidings of joy. Patricia Polacco has written another one.
Full ReviewI recommend the book to any parent whose child struggles in school or loves art.
Full ReviewHer story will give wings to other slow readers, and the subtext about how artists perceive negative space and perspective will give every reader, young and old, new insight into seeing the world.
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