Book Review: ACTION JACKSON

Greenberg, Jan., & Jordan, Sandra. (2007). Action Jackson. Ill. by Robert Andrew Parker New

York: Square Fish. (ISBN 0761327703)

PLOT SUMMARY

Authors Jan Greenberg and Sandra Jordan showcase how unique artist Jackson Pollock created Number One, 1950, (Lavender Mist) artwork. In Action Jackson, Jackson Pollock is a quite individual who uses a different method of creating his artwork. His art studio is an old barn and uses the barn floor as his work space. Jackson is a fan of array of paint from house paint to watercolors. He decides on creating a piece of art and begins his creation. After some time he becomes tired and loses focus. He goes through daily life responsibilities and gets a sudden burst of inspiration from music and nature and continued his artwork. Finally after oodles of paint and using brush strokes, streaks, and hands the painting is complete: Number One, 1950 (Lavender Mist). Pollock continued to create these unique paintings until his death in 1956.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

The story is complete in 27 pages making the story short, simple, and to the point. The author provides little information on his personal life, but emphasizing on the creation of Number One, 1950 (Lavender Mist). The illustrations created by water colors expresses the simplicity of Jackson Pollock’s life.  In the biography at the end of the story it states, “He was famous now, but he told friends that all the attention made him “feel like a clam without a shell.””

REVIEW EXCERPT (S)

-Book List starred (2002) “the authors explore what an artist does in remarkably clear language that will encourage children to approach art, learn about it, and trust their own reactions”

-Horn Book Guide starred “This is a book with the energy and expression to match its subject.”

-School Library Journal (2002) “The text is accessible enough for younger readers to appreciate if read aloud and lively enough to appeal to older readers, who just might be inspired to learn more about the artist.”

*Robert F. Sibert Informational Book Honor, 2003

*New York Public Library Books for the Teen Age, 2004

*ALA Notable Children's Books, 2003

CONNECTIONS

This book along with the following texts would greatly assist students with writing or drawing conclusion: Nonfiction read and respond activity (writing/drawing conclusions):

Harris, L. V., & Cassatt, M. (2007). Mary Cassatt: impressionist painter. Gretna: Pelican. ISBN 9781589804524

Winter, Jeanette. (2003). My name is georgia: a portrait. San Diego: Voyager Books, Harcourt, Inc. ISBN 978-0152045975