Radiant Child: The Story of Young Artist Jean-Michel Basquiat
Americas Award for Children's and Young Adult Literature. Commended Series
on Goodreads (5,720)
What’s inside...
A visually stunning and powerful biography of artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, written and illustrated by Javaka Steptoe. Basquiat's life is depicted from his childhood in Brooklyn, where he was encouraged to explore his artistic talents, to his rise to fame in the 1980s art world. The book highlights Basquiat's unique style and how he used his art to express his experiences and emotions. Steptoe's illustrations are a beautiful tribute to Basquiat's work, blending collage, paint, and other media to create vibrant and emotive images. The book includes an author's note and a timeline of Basquiat's life, making it an excellent educational resource as well as a moving and inspiring story. Winner of the Randolph Caldecott Medal and the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award!
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-9
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Jean-Michel Basquiat
Matilde Basquiat
Discussion points
What feelings do you think Jean-Michel Basquiat experienced while creating his art?
How do the vibrant colors and bold textures in the illustrations make you feel?
Why is it important for Jean-Michel to share his story and art with the world?
Can you think of a time when you created something that made you feel proud, like Jean-Michel?
How do you think Jean-Michel's life and experiences influenced his artwork?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the artwork in the book, relating it back to their own experiences with creating art.
Discuss the significance of perseverance and self-expression, drawing parallels to Jean-Michel’s dedication to his art despite challenges.
Highlight the cultural and historical elements presented in the book, explaining their relevance to Basquiat’s story and art style.
Ask your child to describe their favorite illustration in the book and explain what they think it represents about Basquiat’s life or emotions.
Foster a deeper connection by creating art together inspired by Basquiat’s unique style, discussing how different emotions can be represented through art.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Persistence in the face of adversity
Explanation: Jean-Michel Basquiat faces numerous challenges but remains dedicated to his art, showing resilience and determination.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to persevere through their own struggles, whether in school, sports, or other activities, understanding that obstacles are part of achieving their goals.
Example Lesson: Importance of self-expression
Explanation: Through Basquiat's journey, the story highlights how he uses art to express his thoughts, feelings, and identity.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to explore and express their own emotions and ideas through creative outlets such as drawing, writing, or music.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of diversity and culture
Explanation: The book showcases Basquiat’s mixed heritage and how it influences his art, promoting an understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity.
Real-World Application: Kids are inspired to learn about and respect various cultures and backgrounds, which fosters empathy and inclusivity in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Value of mentorship
Explanation: Key figures in Basquiat’s life provide guidance and support, impacting his artistic development.
Real-World Application: Children can see the importance of seeking out and appreciating mentors, be they teachers, coaches, or family members, who can help guide their personal and academic growth.
Example Lesson: Following one’s passion
Explanation: The narrative conveys Basquiat's deep passion for art from an early age and how he pursues it relentlessly, eventually finding success.
Real-World Application: This lesson can motivate children to identify what they love doing and encourage them to invest time and effort into pursuing their interests earnestly.