By Sharifa Rhodes-Pitts. Illustrated by Christopher Myers

 

Published in conjunction with an exhibition of Jacob Lawrence's Migration Series at The Museum of Modern Art, Jake Makes a World: Jacob Lawrence, A Young Artist in Harlem is a vibrant introduction to the artist by the acclaimed writer Sharifa Rhodes-Pitts and the award-winning illustrator Christopher Myers. Taking Lawrence's childhood in New York during the 1930s as its starting point, the book follows young Jake as he takes in the colors, sounds, rhythms, smells, and characters of his community in Harlem, passing through his mother's apartment, neighborhood streets full of familiar and not-so-familiar faces, and the art studio where he goes each day after school. Featuring photographic reproductions of Migration Series panels in addition to Myers's colorful illustrations, the book explores the inspiration the young artist finds in ordinary things, and the joy he discovers in making art. 44 pp.; illustrated throughout.