Publisher's Weekly Review
A Black child who is both activist and artist combines those concepts in this layered work from Smith (That Flag). For the story's narrator, who loves to paint and to "seed goodness," the world they live in often proves not to be the world they want, as visualized by the building-size monster they face that's made up of all manner of injustices. Bringing their identities together to effect change, the child determines to make art that will "show everyone what isn't working right." Kinetic textured digital illustrations portray issues of gentrification and housing insecurity, pollution and waste, hate and racism, and voter disenfranchisement, among others, while simple language makes big actions feel powerfully straightforward ("This needs to be fixed. This needs to be fixed too"). Envisioning "the broken bones I see and the healing I hope for" makes an impact: when the child paints a mural that transforms an eviction-related sign from "MOVE TODAY" to "LOVE TODAY," the image goes viral, inspiring others. It's a meaningful portrait of artistic advocacy that ends with an invitation: "The Artivist is you. What change will you bring?" An author's note concludes. Ages 4--8. (Sept.)
Kirkus Review
In this autobiographical picture book by acclaimed "artivist" Smith, a young artist learns to use his talent for social commentary. A Black child who loves to paint and help the community sees problems in the world that make him want to act. Aware of issues that need to be addressed--an unhoused person and someone being prevented from voting are pictured--he decides to combine his identities as an artist and as an activist, to "take ACTION with my ART," and be an "ARTIVIST." His art shows what is broken and what might heal it. When his painting on a city wall catches the attention of news outlets, its impact multiplies. In the second half of the story, the text describes what an artivist does while the visuals show various activist-related art, from murals to protest signs, that inspire empathy and spark change. The intimate, first-person narration draws readers right into the story, and the protagonist's heartfelt concern for justice keeps readers engaged through the hopeful ending message. Smith's vibrant art, full of expressive strokes and effective use of color, light, and dark, complements the text beautifully; while his words are broad and general, the images depict specific issues facing contemporary society. This expression of active love, solidarity, and compassion will resonate with and inspire readers of all ages. (This book was reviewed digitally.) A powerful read-aloud to share and discuss. (author's note) (Picture book. 4-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
