Is there an artist and writer working today who honors teachers more than Patricia Polacco does? The life stories that she shares so beautifully with her readers remain among my favorites and have a shelf of their own in my library.
In this book she introduces a beloved Irish elementary teacher, Mr. Donovan. She shows her readers what happens when an intuitive educator recognizes that one of his students learns differently than others in his class. In this case, he realizes that Trisha can DO the work, she just needs additional time to get it done. He provides the time, and she blossoms with his understanding of her learning process. He also recognizes her innate artistic talent, and has her accepted into a special program for young artists with Miss Chew, the high school art teacher. Mr. Donovan and Miss Chew are kindred spirits...and Trisha is lucky to be in their presence. It is a life story, and resonates with the love she felt for both teachers.
When Miss Chew talks with Ther-esa (which is how she heard her name) about negative space, she recognizes that her student sees words in patterns, not letters; this explains the difficulties she has with learning at school. When Mr. Donovan is called back to Ireland, the teacher who substitutes in his absence has none of his empathy. She refuses to give Trisha extra time for tests, and is not impressed with her attendance at art class, thus missing two afternoons of 'school' each week. There is nothing redeeming about Mr. Donovan's replacement, and that is made painfully clear to readers.
As happens in her school and family stories, all's well that ends well...thank goodness! If not, we might not have the pleasure of sharing these stories with our children today. She is an artist; of that, there is no doubt! Her stories are poignant and reflective of the events in her life that have made her so much more than that. She is a champion of teachers, of learning in our own special ways, of family and friends.
Her pencil and marker illustrations are brilliantly colored, expressive and always moving. She gives us characters to love; we recognize the young Trisha from other favorite books. Her use of first person to tell the story gives it resonance and presence for her readers, allowing them brief glimpses of a life that is both engaging and telling.
Thinking of a gift for your child's teacher as the holiday season creeps closer? You cannot go wrong by putting this book in the school library, honoring the part that teacher plays in your child's life. Have the librarian add a book plate that gives details...then, all children and teachers will have access to another lovely life story from the talented Ms. Polacco.
TEACHERS CHANGE LIVES!
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