A review by kingrosereads
The People's Painter: How Ben Shahn Fought for Justice with Art by Cynthia Levinson

challenging emotional reflective fast-paced

4.5

I think this is an excellent story for children. It introduces them to not only a form of art but also a piece of history not normally taught in schools. It opens a conversation about prejudice against Jewish people, immigrants, impoverished people, and other marginalized groups. This is the first time I’ve heard of Ben Shahn and I thought it was because his art style wasn’t my cup of tea, but now I hate that I hadn’t heard about him before or social realism in art! It’s seems way too important to not be taught in schools and I hope teachers find this book and discuss it in their classes! It does seem to be a little heavy and long winded to be taught to 6 year olds, but I think it’s perfect for 3rd graders. 
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