Thursday, June 20, 2024

Book Review: Blood Water Paint

 Blood Water Paint by Joy McCullough

Bibliography:

Mccullough, J. (2019). Blood Water Paint. Penguin Group Usa.


Plot Summary:

This story is about a young girl, Artemisia, after she has lost her mother. She has a choice to make, life in a convent or to work with her father making paint. Artemisia decides to fight for her future and works with her father, which comes with many challenges. As the story progresses you follow Artemisia as she becomes a painter during a time in Rome where women didn't have the freedom of choice, autonomy or creativity.


Critical Analysis:

This book is a classic underdog story. It is so empowering because it is what anyone would want to do in the situation of Artemisia. This book is a powerful YA novel because it keeps the readers close attention by inspiring, upsetting and satisfying the reader. The poetic text flows and is almost lyrical making the reading less arduous and more of an experience. The character building is powerful to where you are rooting for this character. It is important for the audience to know that through her struggles there are themes of violence and rape. This book creates visibility for women and the struggle to exist, thrive and succeed in a world made for the success of men. This book is so different, but so beautiful, it is something you should read and then pass along to share.


A‌wards/Accolades: William C. Morris Award Finalist

2018 National Book Award Long List

"A captivating and impressive."—Booklist, starred review

"Belongs on every YA shelf."—SLJ, starred review

"Haunting."—Publishers Weekly, starred review 

"Luminous."—Shelf Awareness, starred review


Connections:

Due to the subject matter of this book it would be great to read alongside lessons regarding Roman history, women's experiences and rights throughout the world or art history.

Book Review by Barbara Jean Thompson

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Final Reflection

 https://www.imagineforest.com/media/s/stories/pdf/k15v6/teaching-students-in-the-digital-age.pdf?t=1722384236