Book details
Silent Days, Silent Dreams
Description
Caldecott Medal winner Allen Say brings his lavish illustrations and hybrid narrative and artistic styles to the story of artist James Castle. James Castle was born two months premature on September 25, 1899, on a farm in Garden Valley, Idaho. He was deaf, mute, autistic, and probably dyslexic. He didn't walk until he was four; he would never learn to speak, write, read, or use sign language. Yet, today Castle's artwork hangs in major museums throughout the world. The Philadelphia Museum of Art opened 'James A Retrospective' in 2008. The 2013 Venice Biennale included eleven works by Castle in the feature exhibition 'The Encyclopedic Palace.' And his reputation continues to grow. Caldecott Medal winner Allen Say, author of the acclaimed memoir Drawing from Memory, takes readers through an imagined look at Castle's childhood, allows them to experience his emergence as an artist despite the overwhelming difficulties he faced, and ultimately reveals the triumphs that he would go on to achieve.
Age
8-12
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
64 pages
Why to read
- Insight into the Deaf Experience: 'Silent Days, Silent Dreams' offers readers a profound look into the life of a deaf and mute individual, providing a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs faced by people with hearing and speech impairments.
- Artistic Inspiration: The book celebrates the life of artist James Castle, showcasing his remarkable ability to create stunning works of art despite his disabilities. Readers interested in art and creativity will find inspiration in Castle's dedication and ingenuity.
- Award-Winning Author: Allen Say is a respected author and illustrator with a reputation for crafting deeply moving stories. His expertise and sensitive storytelling ensure that 'Silent Days, Silent Dreams' is a high-quality literary work that resonates with readers of all ages.
- Cultural and Historical Significance: The book provides a window into the past, exploring the societal attitudes towards disabilities in the early 20th century. It encourages readers to reflect on how perceptions have changed over time and the importance of inclusivity and understanding.