Response Post to Javaka Steptoe “Radiant Child”
Answering question: What is another topic brought up in Radiant Child that is useful for young readers to relate to, and what does its portrayal do for the reader?
In Javaka Steptoe “Radiant Child”, there were many inspirational topics that can be used as motivation for young readers. The main character Jean- Michel can be used an example for young readers that are not sure what they want to be, or for young artist that aren’t sure if they can become an artist. As Jean- Michel is not the perfect artist as it is described in the story that his art was not perfect, but it was still beautiful. This is an inspirational portrayal of imperfection, as Jean- Michel was not perfect, but his art was accepted by many. Even with the imperfections in his art he was able to make a living on what he loves doing. In the book art was described as, “Art is the street games of little children, in our style and the words that we speak. It is how the messy patchwork of the city creates new meaning for the ordinary things.” This portrays that art is everywhere around us, and it is waiting to be discovered. Art can be perfection, but it does not have to be perfection for it to be considered art. Steptoe wants the reader to be able to relate to Jean- Michel, and the way he perceives art. Art is not constant, and everyone perceives it different, Steptoe knows this, he wants to share this topic to younger readers. He portrays this message through Jean- Michel, and his imperfect art that can be perceived as ugly, is still beautiful in its own way. Even though Jean- Michel could not color in between the lines and his art can be seen as ugly, he never gave up and embraced his own art style. Embracing one’s own imperfection is a way to empower oneself, and as long as you keep moving further anything is possible.
-Anthony Zuniga