Daniel Keep Dreaming
Written by Paige Lackey Martin.Photography Illustrations by Angie Williams and Paige Lackey Martin.
Published in 2011.
Daniel is an inspired young artist with an unyielding passion for art. He encounters great difficulty whilst dealing with his father who has different ideas about the proper pursuit of dedication in life. His father (Mr. Chase) believes Daniel should put away his paintbrushes and engage in a practical field like science. Daniel's Grandmother and Mother on the other hand are very supportive of Daniel's passion to continue developing his art, as is his media teacher from school, named Mr. Hayes.
After winning first prize for one of his art pieces, Daniel is given the opportunity to create a large mural on the media wall at his school. He is overjoyed, but quickly realizes that his father will oppose this in light of the science fair coming up that Mr. Chase has demanded his son participate in. Daniel reluctantly agreed to submitting a science fair project, but decides to lie to his parents about working on it, in order to paint the media wall mural.
His plan backfires when his parents find out about the mural, and confront him on his deception. Daniel explains his reasoning for lying, and further implores for acceptance of his aspirations to be an artist. Despite being upset Mr. Chase surrenders to the sway of Daniel's champions and begins supporting his son's dreams into reality. The story concludes with the whole family sharing a proud moment over the accomplishment of Daniel's mural recognized in the local newspaper.
According to the stipulations in 10 Quick Ways to Analyze Children's Books for Racism and Sexism, set by the Council on Interracial Books for Children (1998), the minority culture of people of color are respectfully depicted in this story, and the scenario's could be relatable to any culture or ethnicity. A Caucasian family or family of any other race could have just as easily been portrayed, and thus there was no suspect of stereotypes detected.
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| Daniel and Calvin |
Daniel has healthy self-esteem, and provides a wonderful role model for people to follow their dreams, even when antagonistic forces are at work. This story also advocates the importance of family support for children developing in a balanced way with a positive self-image. The women in this book signify wise and meaningful people of power in Daniel's life. He seeks out and welcomes the guidance of the matriarchal females in the household. After Mr. Chase had established a new edict for Daniel to put his art supplies away and focus on intellectual studies, Daniel's grandmother had this to say to console him: "Now Daniel, don't listen to anyone who tries to discourage you. You are a good boy with wonderful talent." (Martin, 2011, pg. 16) Daniel represents strength in his character as a boy who believes in himself, listens to his inner voice to never give up, but also receives a powerful lesson from his parents about honesty.
This story delivers a great message about the way a family pulls together to problem solve and through reciprocal communication and understanding opens a door for their family to grow ever closer through trust and respect.
Based on the warm, fuzzy feelings and the positive message this book portrays I would highly recommend it as a tool for culture and diversity education. The author self published her book, and she is the creator and instructor of a creative arts program for inner city kids in schools and non profits in the Atlanta, Georgia area. (Jacketflap.com, 2011) Knowing this it makes sense that her story had such a strong slant for the passion of art.
On many levels it represented highly esteemed values, such as equality and recognition (pertaining to talent), honesty, good communication, never giving up on one's dreams, inspiring others, confidence, commitment to one's ideals, and respect. Yes, especially respect! Respect for different perspectives, and the beauty that comes from accepting others' unique expression in this world, whether it involves race, gender, age, culture, or resistance to the status quo.
References:
10 Quick Ways to Analyze Children's Books for Sexism and Racism. Adapted from the original brochure which was published by the Council on Interracial Books for Children by the California State Department of Education. Sacramento, 1998.
Martin, P. L. (2011). Daniel Keep Dreaming. Page Martin Books.
Paige Martin's JacketFlap Profile. (2011). Retrieved from: http://www.jacketflap.com/profile.asp?member=pmarboooks.
I think this is a great book to read to children because it shows them that if you lie to your parents,consequences will follow. So, it is always best to be honest. Also, it gives the sense to never give up on your dreams, no matter who tells you something cannot be done.It is also great that there was no strain between Calvin or Daniel because of a racial differences or jealousy of talent.
ReplyDeleteThe book did well on setting up the 'no strain between Calvin or Daniel because of a racial differences.' It shows that people can get along and be friends even if they are different.
DeleteMy brother has actually gone through this kind of. My dad didn't approve of his art passion and wanted to have my brother take lots of AP classes instead of the art classes my brother planned on. My dad still isn't entirely happy with my brother's love of art, but he had backed off my brother a little. Maybe I should make him read this book.
ReplyDeleteNicely done. This sounds like a good book to add to the shelf.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like a great story! I like finding books that talk about a child having 'open communication' with his family. I think this is an example that a parent should be flexible when dealing with a child and find out 'why' a child wants, or likes something instead of just giving it a nod. Daniel does indeed show his self respect and perseverance in his love for art. I can't wait to read this. I also like the paint by numbers feel to the illustration. Good analysis, thank you.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing this wonderful book. This is a great book to be read in class. Every child has his/her own talent and this is a good book understand their passion and support that.
ReplyDeleteThis book sounds like a great portrayal of family life and it's challenges.You have made a very thorough and thoughtful analysis of the book, taking the time to go through the 10 steps carefully. Thank You.
ReplyDeleteThis story delivers a great message about the way a family comes together. It sounds like it is a great story for children to show what a positive role model your family can be. Great analysis, thanks for sharing :)
ReplyDeleteI think that you did a really good job. Your layout and pictures were so great and I love your writting easy for me to follow. Good job
ReplyDeleteVery well written presentation. This sounds like a great activity to do with children and you could also use canned goods with "unusual" foods so that it doubles the learning and experience of the child and they get to try something new.
ReplyDelete