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“Pictures just come to my mind … and I tell my heart to go ahead.”

This book could be used in a classroom discussion to help students explore themes of perseverance and creativity. Horace Pippin‘s determination to keep painting, even after his injury, provides a meaningful example for talking about what a growth mindset is and overcoming challenges. The book also opens opportunities to discuss how art can be a form of self-expression.

War had changed his life, but not his love of art

I would use this book in grades 3-5 because fits well with units on biography, perseverance, art, and diverse historical figures. The book can spark discussions about resilience, creativity, and expressing emotions through art. I could also connect it to a simple art activity where students create artwork inspired by Pippin‘s style or use his story to model how people grow through practice.

“And if you stood outside his house, late at night, you might see him leaning toward his easel, his left hand holding up his right“

A Splash of Red: The Life and Art of Horace Pippin is a biography written in 2013. Horace Pippin's life offers much meaning and interest for children. Horace Pippin is an inspiration to never give up on your dreams. Horace had to provide for his family when his father left, but he never gave up on his art. When WWI happened, he was shot and had to reteach himself how to paint. He painted by holding his left arm up with his right.

This book is a biography published in 2023. This book shows students they can overcome obstacles. His story shows that with determination, self-expression, and resilience, you can overcome adversity and follow your passion. It widens children‘s views of what‘s possible in their own lives by presenting a non-traditional, underdog journey, one that doesn‘t rely on privilege but on creativity, grit, and heart.

Horace‘s life offers strong interest and meaning for children. His story shows how someone can face big challenges, like his war injury and still find creative ways to follow their passion. Kids can connect with his determination, his problem-solving, and his love for art. His life also teaches an important message about not giving up, even when something feels hard.

A Splash of Red is a beautifully illustrated picture book biography that tells the inspiring story of Horace Pippin, an artist who never gave up on his love for painting. After an injury in World War I made it hard for him to use his arm, Horace found creative ways to keep making art, showing incredible determination and resilience.

“José drew skulls that were doing all sorts of things. They were eating, dancing, and riding bicycles. They were called calaveras.”