What Allen Has to Say

We are beginning our exploration of author and illustrator, Allen Say.  Allen was born and raised in Japan.  At 12 years of age, Allen served as apprentice to his favorite cartoonist, Noro Shinpei. Allen moved to the United States at age 16, and was sent to military school.  He began work as a photographer before transitioning into illustrating children's books.  Ultimately, Allen began to write and illustrate his own books for children. Many of Allen's books are inspired by true events, both his own experiences and those of his family.  We will be studying Allen Say's work as the weeks progress; making connections and determining underlying themes.  Before we begin this study, we thought it might be helpful to build more background knowledge on this amazing man.  Click here for more information!

Allen with his pet cat.  Perhaps it was inspiration for his book, Allison.

Allen presenting inspiration for his illustrations.

Allen Say at his drawing table. "When a picture tells a story you don't have
 to write it.  This came to me as a great revelation." 

Allen's 1994 Caldecott winning story, based on his grandfather's life.

True story, based on Allen's mother's move from California to Japan as a young girl.

Story depicting an event from Allen's childhood.