Description
Book Synopsis: * 4 Starred Reviews ** An Indie Next List Pick
“Playful, bold, and, much like its subject, full of grace.” —Jillian Tamaki, Caldecott Honor winner for This One Summer
“It Began with a Page tells [Gyo Fujikawa's] story beautifully, in picture-book form.” —The New Yorker
From beloved team Kyo Maclear and Julie Morstad (creators of Julia, Child and Bloom: A Story of Fashion Designer Elsa Schiaparelli) comes an elegant picture book biography that portrays the most moving moments in the life of Gyo Fujikawa, a groundbreaking Japanese American hero in the fight for racial diversity in picture books.
Equal parts picture book biography, inspiring story, and a look at racial diversity in America, It Began with a Page is a gem for any book lover, librarian, or child who dares to dream big.
Growing up in California, Gyo Fujikawa always knew that she wanted to be an artist. She was raised among strong women, including her mother and teachers, who encouraged her to fight for what she believed in. During World War II, Gyo’s family was forced to abandon everything and was taken to an internment camp in Arkansas.
Far away from home, Gyo worked as an illustrator in New York while her innocent family was imprisoned. Seeing the diversity around her and feeling pangs from her own childhood, Gyo became determined to show all types of children in the pages of her books. There had to be a world where they saw themselves represented. Gyo’s book Babies was initially rejected by her publisher, but after she insisted, they finally relented, and Babies went on to sell almost two million copies. Gyo’s books paved the way for publishers, teachers, and readers to see what we can be when we welcome others into our world.
The book includes extensive backmatter, including a note from the creators, a timeline, archival photos, and further information on Gyo Fujikawa.
A Chicago Public Library Best Book of 2019
A Kirkus Best of 2019 Picture Book
A 2020 ALSC Notable Children's Book
A 2020 Orbis Pictus Recommended Title awarded annually by NCTE (National Council of Teachers of English)
Featured in the 2019 Original Art Show at the Society of Illustrators
Details
Discover the inspirational story of Gyo Fujikawa, the groundbreaking Japanese American hero who revolutionized children's picture books. In "It Began with a Page: How Gyo Fujikawa Drew the Way," award-winning authors Kyo Maclear and Julie Morstad beautifully capture the life of this influential artist. This captivating picture book biography has received rave reviews, including 4-starred reviews and an Indie Next List Pick.
Growing up in California, Gyo Fujikawa always knew she wanted to be an artist. Inspired by the strong women in her life, she fought for what she believed in. However, during World War II, her family was forced to endure the hardships of internment camps. While they suffered, Gyo found solace in her work as an illustrator in New York. Determined to address the lack of diversity in picture books, she made it her mission to showcase children from all backgrounds.
Despite facing rejection from publishers, Gyo persisted. Her groundbreaking book, "Babies," sold almost two million copies and changed the landscape of children's literature forever. By welcoming diversity into our world, Gyo Fujikawa paved the way for future generations of publishers, teachers, and readers.
This remarkable book is not only a picture book biography but also an inspiring story of resilience and a powerful exploration of racial diversity in America. It is essential reading for book lovers, librarians, and anyone who dreams big.
Immerse yourself in Gyo Fujikawa's world with the extensive backmatter included in this book. Delve into the creators' note, explore the timeline, view archival photos, and gain further insights into the life and work of Gyo Fujikawa.
Don't miss your chance to be inspired by "It Began with a Page: How Gyo Fujikawa Drew the Way." Experience the magic of Gyo's artistry and her unwavering commitment to representation. Get your copy now and embark on a journey that will change the way you see the world.
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