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Art Club
Drawn from the author’s own childhood like New Kid , this contemporary graphic novel paints a picture of an aspiring young artist on a mission to prove that the arts are worth fighting for.
Dale Donavan has heard the same lecture over and over Art will get you nowhere in life. A kid with a creative streak, Dale wants nothing more than to doodle, play video games, and create comics forever—maybe even as a full-time job one day. But between his grandfather pushing him to focus on his studies and a school with zero interest in funding arts programs, Dale feels like his future has already been decided for him.
That is, until he comes up with the perfect What if he starts an after-school art club, gathers a team of creative students like himself, and proves all the naysayers—his stubborn vice principal in particular—wrong?
This might just work, but if the club isn’t financially successful by the end of the semester, the school with shut them down. This may be Dale’s only chance to show the adults in his life that a career as an artist is not just a dream but a possibility!
Dale Donavan has heard the same lecture over and over Art will get you nowhere in life. A kid with a creative streak, Dale wants nothing more than to doodle, play video games, and create comics forever—maybe even as a full-time job one day. But between his grandfather pushing him to focus on his studies and a school with zero interest in funding arts programs, Dale feels like his future has already been decided for him.
That is, until he comes up with the perfect What if he starts an after-school art club, gathers a team of creative students like himself, and proves all the naysayers—his stubborn vice principal in particular—wrong?
This might just work, but if the club isn’t financially successful by the end of the semester, the school with shut them down. This may be Dale’s only chance to show the adults in his life that a career as an artist is not just a dream but a possibility!
240 pages, Paperback
Published February 6, 2024
60 people are currently reading
2832 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
September 23, 2023
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
Dale loves playing videos games and drawing, and thinks that school is boring. His father is deployed, and his mother is busy working as a nurse. His grandfather has moved in with the family after the death of the beloved grandmother, who was as interested in comics as Dale is. When Mr. Ruffin assigns a project on future careers, Dale doesn't know quite what to research. The message from both his family and his school has been very clear; art will not provide a job that pays well enough to have a stable life. Still, nothing else seems fun, so Dale decides to do his project on comic book creators. While researching different options, he decides that he really would like to have an art club at school. There was one years ago, but it was cut because of budgetary concerns. He and several friends, including basketball player and best friend Aren, art enthusiast Kya, and Mackenzie, who has to hide her involvement from her mother, who wants her to focus on math and science so she can be the first person in her family to go to college. The children approach one of the teachers, Miss Ja'nae, to be their faculty sponsor, since she was in an art club at the school years ago, but Mr. Ruffin shut it down. She is interested in the same video game that Dale enjoys, and eventually agrees to help. Mr. Ruffin has demanded that the club earn $500 to support itself, and lets them meet in a small, crowded room. Things go well, and the group is even approached by the local comic shop to help with their launch, but after Mr. Ruffin hears the kids arguing, he increases his demands to $1,000 for the club to earn to remain viable. Kya has an art show planned, and the kids work hard to earn money. Dale manages to get his grandfather on his side, but will the group be able to convince Mr. Ruffin that the art club is not a waste of their time?
Strengths: I'm a big fan of Children Doing Things, and it's good that Dale moves beyong the idea of playing video games all day to researching careers in art. He shows initiative in gathering enough people, persuading Miss Ja'nae to be their advisor, and in fundraising. He convinces his family that his pursuits have merit, and even stands up to Mr. Ruffin to make his voice heard. The art is colorful, and will appeal to students who like graphic novels and manga.
Weaknesses: Major in Latin, they said. You can get your PhD and teach Classics in college, they said. I'm really glad that art worked out for Mr. Doucet, but it doesn't work out for everyone. I wish someone had warned me that majoring in Latin was a bad idea. Pursuing something you love and not being able to find a stable, remunerative career in the field can make a person bitter. Really, really bitter. Mr. Ruffin isn't as evil as he's made out to be, looking at him from my perspective.
What I really think: This is a good choice for readers who like art and comics and have enjoyed Sells' Doodleville or Rodriguez and Bell's Doodles from the Boogie Down.
Dale loves playing videos games and drawing, and thinks that school is boring. His father is deployed, and his mother is busy working as a nurse. His grandfather has moved in with the family after the death of the beloved grandmother, who was as interested in comics as Dale is. When Mr. Ruffin assigns a project on future careers, Dale doesn't know quite what to research. The message from both his family and his school has been very clear; art will not provide a job that pays well enough to have a stable life. Still, nothing else seems fun, so Dale decides to do his project on comic book creators. While researching different options, he decides that he really would like to have an art club at school. There was one years ago, but it was cut because of budgetary concerns. He and several friends, including basketball player and best friend Aren, art enthusiast Kya, and Mackenzie, who has to hide her involvement from her mother, who wants her to focus on math and science so she can be the first person in her family to go to college. The children approach one of the teachers, Miss Ja'nae, to be their faculty sponsor, since she was in an art club at the school years ago, but Mr. Ruffin shut it down. She is interested in the same video game that Dale enjoys, and eventually agrees to help. Mr. Ruffin has demanded that the club earn $500 to support itself, and lets them meet in a small, crowded room. Things go well, and the group is even approached by the local comic shop to help with their launch, but after Mr. Ruffin hears the kids arguing, he increases his demands to $1,000 for the club to earn to remain viable. Kya has an art show planned, and the kids work hard to earn money. Dale manages to get his grandfather on his side, but will the group be able to convince Mr. Ruffin that the art club is not a waste of their time?
Strengths: I'm a big fan of Children Doing Things, and it's good that Dale moves beyong the idea of playing video games all day to researching careers in art. He shows initiative in gathering enough people, persuading Miss Ja'nae to be their advisor, and in fundraising. He convinces his family that his pursuits have merit, and even stands up to Mr. Ruffin to make his voice heard. The art is colorful, and will appeal to students who like graphic novels and manga.
Weaknesses: Major in Latin, they said. You can get your PhD and teach Classics in college, they said. I'm really glad that art worked out for Mr. Doucet, but it doesn't work out for everyone. I wish someone had warned me that majoring in Latin was a bad idea. Pursuing something you love and not being able to find a stable, remunerative career in the field can make a person bitter. Really, really bitter. Mr. Ruffin isn't as evil as he's made out to be, looking at him from my perspective.
What I really think: This is a good choice for readers who like art and comics and have enjoyed Sells' Doodleville or Rodriguez and Bell's Doodles from the Boogie Down.
June 20, 2024
This is a super powerful graphic novel about the courage and tenacity to follow your dreams. How often have we heard that an art degree or a career in the arts won’t pay the bills? All too often students dreams of doodling and drawing and following an artistic path are squashed in middle school/high school.
I like that this novel makes amends for past mistakes. I cried a little at the end when his grandpa supported his dream too.
Highly recommend this one to all my art teacher friends and it should be in all middle school classrooms/libraries.
I like that this novel makes amends for past mistakes. I cried a little at the end when his grandpa supported his dream too.
Highly recommend this one to all my art teacher friends and it should be in all middle school classrooms/libraries.
August 3, 2024
legit only read for grandpam
May 13, 2024
A super solid middle grade graphic novel! This is a great addition to any middle grade graphic novel collection.
Things I Liked:
-The artwork and coloring was really beautiful. This was full of bright colors and gorgeous illustrations. I loved all the artwork showcasing the various forms of artwork each student in art club chose to focus on.
-A great story about going after what you want in life, even when those in positions of power doubt your ambitions.
-I loved getting to know the motivations behind each member of the art club. It was cool to see all the various representation not only with the students but also with their art and home life.
-These middle schoolers are extremely motivated to raise $1,000!
Things I Didn't Like:
-It seemed unrealistic that an administrator would be both an administrator, and teaching a middle school class. Likewise, it seems unrealistic they would ask a club of four students to raise $1,000. Some money? Sure. But this amount seemed extremely high.
-I know this is a middle grade graphic novel but things fell into place so easily for our art club crew. It seemed almost too easy for them to land all the gigs they wanted.
Things I Liked:
-The artwork and coloring was really beautiful. This was full of bright colors and gorgeous illustrations. I loved all the artwork showcasing the various forms of artwork each student in art club chose to focus on.
-A great story about going after what you want in life, even when those in positions of power doubt your ambitions.
-I loved getting to know the motivations behind each member of the art club. It was cool to see all the various representation not only with the students but also with their art and home life.
-These middle schoolers are extremely motivated to raise $1,000!
Things I Didn't Like:
-It seemed unrealistic that an administrator would be both an administrator, and teaching a middle school class. Likewise, it seems unrealistic they would ask a club of four students to raise $1,000. Some money? Sure. But this amount seemed extremely high.
-I know this is a middle grade graphic novel but things fell into place so easily for our art club crew. It seemed almost too easy for them to land all the gigs they wanted.
December 5, 2023
This is a cute middle grade graphic novel about a kid who starts an art club at his very anti-art middle school. I loved seeing how delighted the kids were to create art, and I enjoyed the video games sections. This would be a great read for art-loving kids.
November 20, 2024
The story fell a little flat for me at the end. The art is top notch though. Stunning!
March 9, 2025
3.5 stars...rounding up to 4 because I think it's a great middle grade graphic novel and I would recommend it for the intended audience. I love the concepts of finding something that brings you joy and overcoming obstacles. I think the friendship dynamics were realistic and I liked how they resolved conflicts and stood up for each other.
Read
May 29, 2024Great choice for artsy kids or fun school realistic fiction lovers!
September 1, 2024
Great illustrations, characters, and themes. Read it for the 3 Aves Middle Grade Summer Reading Challenge.
dnf
September 26, 2024I didn't like the illustrations - at all.
I couldn't get into the story.
Made this a DNF.
I couldn't get into the story.
Made this a DNF.
October 2, 2024
Art Club
Overall Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ (3/5) or 6.57/10 overall
Characters - 7
Atmosphere - 7
Writing - 7
Plot - 6
Intrigue - 7
Logic - 6
Enjoyment - 6
Overall Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ (3/5) or 6.57/10 overall
Characters - 7
Atmosphere - 7
Writing - 7
Plot - 6
Intrigue - 7
Logic - 6
Enjoyment - 6
January 31, 2024
The Good
I. Art (it is not finalized so subject to change):
Fits the target audience
Colorfulness
Some of the moments that stood out to me was the facial expressions and movements of characters- it felt fun. Also, I liked the shimmer of when they were in FFZ Online.
II. Art Conversation
A. Art vs Career: Does your art need to be at all financially beneficial for you? How are you going to make it monetarily beneficial if that is what you want is dealt with in the story. There are specific moments talking about keeping clients and your personal vision for a project.
B. Artistic process: Talks about different aspects of art, asks what type of art is for you, deals with different art forms, refining art (its process just like other forms of work), and more.
C. There were so many thoughts I had while reading this book (I talk about it in thoughts section) that makes me think this will be good read across age ranges (specifically adults in schools, parents, its target audience, artists, those considering artistic field).
III. Characters
Successfully managing different backstories, personalities, and character arcs of multiple characters.
There were a lot of really good moments but the “Not all of us are cut out to be scientists or engineers”(qoute subject to change because this is an arc) stood probably was my favorite.
Overall, I think the things tackled by the book was done in a way that I felt fit the target audience.
Thoughts
A. I wonder how millennial and younger generations are going to be as parents/grandparents. What knowledge are they going to pass down to generations behind them?
B. Art questions/thoughts: Is art and creativity put to the backburner? What does that mean for children seeing/being told it’s frivolous? Everything has to be financially viable, or it’s not worth doing/learning? What does that mean for the advancement/future of the arts? Do people come into the arts seeing it as easy and not needing work that other careers need?
C. Miscellaneous: Did the vice principal have his dream killed- it felt personal? To be fair to him preparing children for future is his job.
-I wonder about the adults who were apart of the art club that got disbanded by vice principal. What are their lives like now?
I won this from Little, Brown Ink via goodreads
I. Art (it is not finalized so subject to change):
Fits the target audience
Colorfulness
Some of the moments that stood out to me was the facial expressions and movements of characters- it felt fun. Also, I liked the shimmer of when they were in FFZ Online.
II. Art Conversation
A. Art vs Career: Does your art need to be at all financially beneficial for you? How are you going to make it monetarily beneficial if that is what you want is dealt with in the story. There are specific moments talking about keeping clients and your personal vision for a project.
B. Artistic process: Talks about different aspects of art, asks what type of art is for you, deals with different art forms, refining art (its process just like other forms of work), and more.
C. There were so many thoughts I had while reading this book (I talk about it in thoughts section) that makes me think this will be good read across age ranges (specifically adults in schools, parents, its target audience, artists, those considering artistic field).
III. Characters
Successfully managing different backstories, personalities, and character arcs of multiple characters.
There were a lot of really good moments but the “Not all of us are cut out to be scientists or engineers”(qoute subject to change because this is an arc) stood probably was my favorite.
Overall, I think the things tackled by the book was done in a way that I felt fit the target audience.
Thoughts
A. I wonder how millennial and younger generations are going to be as parents/grandparents. What knowledge are they going to pass down to generations behind them?
B. Art questions/thoughts: Is art and creativity put to the backburner? What does that mean for children seeing/being told it’s frivolous? Everything has to be financially viable, or it’s not worth doing/learning? What does that mean for the advancement/future of the arts? Do people come into the arts seeing it as easy and not needing work that other careers need?
C. Miscellaneous: Did the vice principal have his dream killed- it felt personal? To be fair to him preparing children for future is his job.
-I wonder about the adults who were apart of the art club that got disbanded by vice principal. What are their lives like now?
I won this from Little, Brown Ink via goodreads
April 18, 2024
Dale Donovan loves to create and draw, create comics, and play video games with his friends online. He keeps hearing the same old thing every time : that art won't get you anywhere in life. But he dreams of someday doing it full-time. With his grandfather who wants him to focus on his studies to get a job, a school (and administration) that pushed funding over to the math and sciences rather than the arts, it's really not that encouraging for a young artist like Dale. But when their vice principal asks them to report on a financially stable job they would have, it becomes all too real.
One day, he comes up with a plan for an after-school art club, with a team of 4 creatives, and must prove to his stubborn vice principal that art can be profitable. One caveat is that they must earn 500 dollars before the end of the semester otherwise the club could be shut down.
He meets new friends below such as:
Aren: his friend who he plays online with. However, he finds himself struggling to balance his time with the basketball team and time learning to create at the art club.
Mackenzie: new friend, fellow lover of online gaming, and someone with hopes to be a concept artist for their own games. But she struggles to prove to her family that endeavors outside of math and science are worth the effort.
Kya: New friend, fabulous promoter, and deep lover of the earth, and is always looking for ways to promote awareness of eco-friendly endeavors.
My Thoughts:
As someone who has loved to draw from the day I could even hold a crayon, this spoke to me. I would hear of people saying things like if you don't go into a position involving business, medicine, math or science, then you'll be out of luck job wise. But not everyone wants that and this graphic novel speaks to us that find our passions leaning towards the arts.
I also really loved seeing how informative his presentation was on a financially stable job. It showcased that positions that involve art can be quite diverse. His explanations on jobs such as being a cartoonist, a writer, a penciler, a comic color-ist, and more really fascinated me. I also liked how he shared how cool it was that these creations can be purchased in stores, turned into movies, cartoons and other cool things. It just showed to me how hard he worked on that presentation and how much he loves what he does. Who doesn't love that?
I loved seeing them visit all the events that full time and part time artists attend/table at such as local art fests, comic book stores, and more. I also loved seeing how creative they got with promotions and the way that they took on duties such as meeting with clients, revising their work based on a client, and finding that receiving critiques from your creative peers can sometimes be a hard pill to swallow.
While I do understand the worries that Mr. Ruffins has, I would rather see people have a job that they care about and love because those are often the jobs that are hardest to find. Seeing Dale and his friends take on Mr. Ruffins' challenge made me smile. This was a graphic novel that definitely made me go YES! Someone gets it.
One day, he comes up with a plan for an after-school art club, with a team of 4 creatives, and must prove to his stubborn vice principal that art can be profitable. One caveat is that they must earn 500 dollars before the end of the semester otherwise the club could be shut down.
He meets new friends below such as:
Aren: his friend who he plays online with. However, he finds himself struggling to balance his time with the basketball team and time learning to create at the art club.
Mackenzie: new friend, fellow lover of online gaming, and someone with hopes to be a concept artist for their own games. But she struggles to prove to her family that endeavors outside of math and science are worth the effort.
Kya: New friend, fabulous promoter, and deep lover of the earth, and is always looking for ways to promote awareness of eco-friendly endeavors.
My Thoughts:
As someone who has loved to draw from the day I could even hold a crayon, this spoke to me. I would hear of people saying things like if you don't go into a position involving business, medicine, math or science, then you'll be out of luck job wise. But not everyone wants that and this graphic novel speaks to us that find our passions leaning towards the arts.
I also really loved seeing how informative his presentation was on a financially stable job. It showcased that positions that involve art can be quite diverse. His explanations on jobs such as being a cartoonist, a writer, a penciler, a comic color-ist, and more really fascinated me. I also liked how he shared how cool it was that these creations can be purchased in stores, turned into movies, cartoons and other cool things. It just showed to me how hard he worked on that presentation and how much he loves what he does. Who doesn't love that?
I loved seeing them visit all the events that full time and part time artists attend/table at such as local art fests, comic book stores, and more. I also loved seeing how creative they got with promotions and the way that they took on duties such as meeting with clients, revising their work based on a client, and finding that receiving critiques from your creative peers can sometimes be a hard pill to swallow.
While I do understand the worries that Mr. Ruffins has, I would rather see people have a job that they care about and love because those are often the jobs that are hardest to find. Seeing Dale and his friends take on Mr. Ruffins' challenge made me smile. This was a graphic novel that definitely made me go YES! Someone gets it.
November 21, 2023
Perfect to gift to a young artist as motivation. 5 plus plus (stars)
I wish I had read this when I was a child and wanted to become an artist full-time, but adults shut down all my motivation and put me on the path of a financially stable career that wasn't my passion. For this, I can't stop recommending this book to my students and other beginner artists.
Dale's passion for a specific fantasy video game and the pleasure of building a fantasy world and characters leads him to fight outdated, discouraging adults (sometimes also teachers) and learn more about pursuing an art career.
The most valuable thing about this book is that the characters understand that there are plenty of choices down an art path. It's not just drawing as a hobby, there is a lot of personal and financial investment. There are also plenty of career choices: some can work as video game creators, writers, comic book creators (just coloring or drawing, or inking), or do something related to video games and movies. Dale wishes the school could teach more about art so that they could explore more before they have to pick a career (so early in life). It would be great for young students to know all the choices they can make that are more suitable to one's preferences.
More than hard work the best tool to have is family support. It's alright to educate the child on the pros and cons but supporting the journey is as important. Sometimes it's alright to try and change our minds by at least giving our best and then we can make the right choices. Dale's grandfather is a great character.
I love that Dale created an art club in his school and that the author brought the question of making money to the table, writing the story in a way that the "mean" teacher challenges the existence of the art club as a profitable club or not. And having that pressure is important because, unlike other "stable" professions, being an artist can result in a lot of searching for the next commission or company to work for. It should be taught as well to deal with such stress. (my point is that becoming an artist is not a child's play and should be respected as another job).
The author points out that if it is your passion don't let others make you quit. Be tenacious like Dale. Take art seriously like a full-time job if art is part of who you are. I too left my safe job and followed my dream later in life to illustrate comic books and make art for other authors.
This is a book that will treasure and keep closer to my work (art) space.
Thank you Netgalley and Publisher for this e-ARC.
I wish I had read this when I was a child and wanted to become an artist full-time, but adults shut down all my motivation and put me on the path of a financially stable career that wasn't my passion. For this, I can't stop recommending this book to my students and other beginner artists.
Dale's passion for a specific fantasy video game and the pleasure of building a fantasy world and characters leads him to fight outdated, discouraging adults (sometimes also teachers) and learn more about pursuing an art career.
The most valuable thing about this book is that the characters understand that there are plenty of choices down an art path. It's not just drawing as a hobby, there is a lot of personal and financial investment. There are also plenty of career choices: some can work as video game creators, writers, comic book creators (just coloring or drawing, or inking), or do something related to video games and movies. Dale wishes the school could teach more about art so that they could explore more before they have to pick a career (so early in life). It would be great for young students to know all the choices they can make that are more suitable to one's preferences.
More than hard work the best tool to have is family support. It's alright to educate the child on the pros and cons but supporting the journey is as important. Sometimes it's alright to try and change our minds by at least giving our best and then we can make the right choices. Dale's grandfather is a great character.
I love that Dale created an art club in his school and that the author brought the question of making money to the table, writing the story in a way that the "mean" teacher challenges the existence of the art club as a profitable club or not. And having that pressure is important because, unlike other "stable" professions, being an artist can result in a lot of searching for the next commission or company to work for. It should be taught as well to deal with such stress. (my point is that becoming an artist is not a child's play and should be respected as another job).
The author points out that if it is your passion don't let others make you quit. Be tenacious like Dale. Take art seriously like a full-time job if art is part of who you are. I too left my safe job and followed my dream later in life to illustrate comic books and make art for other authors.
This is a book that will treasure and keep closer to my work (art) space.
Thank you Netgalley and Publisher for this e-ARC.
July 25, 2024
What do you want to be when you grow up? I think every kid in middle school has thought about this at some point, but at that age it can be a scary and worrying concept. This is exactly how Dale feels in Art Club by Rashad Doucet.
This semi-autobiographical graphic novel focuses on Dale who loves comic books and video games, but when his tough vice-principal/teacher give his class an assignment to write a report about what they want to be when they grow up Dale wonders if he can find a way to incorporate his passions into a job that “financially stable.” He explores many aspects of art as a career in his research for the report, but it isn’t until a disagreement with his teacher sends him to the principal's office that he realizes that art is what he really wants to explore and somehow turn it into a career. This comes in the form of an Art Club which his principal says he can start if he can find a teacher sponsor and another three members. So, Dale sets out on a mission to create an Art Club that is not only accepted at the school, but also can prove to the unbelieving adults in his life that art can be a future career.
This graphic novel is not only relatable to middle schoolers, but to anyone who loves art and/or appreciates art and the importance it can hold in the lives of young people. The author does a great job of tackling the teenage years of self-doubt and self-discovery. His sketch-like, vibrantly colored illustrations are engaging and mix fantasy with reality in a way that keeps you turning the pages. I think this graphic novel is great for young readers, teens and even adults. It serves as a reminder that your passions can become a career and that standing up for what you believe in can never be a bad thing.
The graphic novel also has bonus pages in the back that show the process of the novel being made, from the first concept to the finished product, which I think shows how someone with a passion for drawing and storytelling can create something successful and is a testament to the lessons and message of the book.
I read this book on the CloudLibrary app, but it is also available in print at various library branches.
- Heather, Branch Manager
This semi-autobiographical graphic novel focuses on Dale who loves comic books and video games, but when his tough vice-principal/teacher give his class an assignment to write a report about what they want to be when they grow up Dale wonders if he can find a way to incorporate his passions into a job that “financially stable.” He explores many aspects of art as a career in his research for the report, but it isn’t until a disagreement with his teacher sends him to the principal's office that he realizes that art is what he really wants to explore and somehow turn it into a career. This comes in the form of an Art Club which his principal says he can start if he can find a teacher sponsor and another three members. So, Dale sets out on a mission to create an Art Club that is not only accepted at the school, but also can prove to the unbelieving adults in his life that art can be a future career.
This graphic novel is not only relatable to middle schoolers, but to anyone who loves art and/or appreciates art and the importance it can hold in the lives of young people. The author does a great job of tackling the teenage years of self-doubt and self-discovery. His sketch-like, vibrantly colored illustrations are engaging and mix fantasy with reality in a way that keeps you turning the pages. I think this graphic novel is great for young readers, teens and even adults. It serves as a reminder that your passions can become a career and that standing up for what you believe in can never be a bad thing.
The graphic novel also has bonus pages in the back that show the process of the novel being made, from the first concept to the finished product, which I think shows how someone with a passion for drawing and storytelling can create something successful and is a testament to the lessons and message of the book.
I read this book on the CloudLibrary app, but it is also available in print at various library branches.
- Heather, Branch Manager
April 12, 2024
Dale's passion for a fantasy video game and the pleasure of building a fantasy world and characters leads him to fight outdated, discouraging adults (sometimes also teachers) and learn more about pursuing an art career.
The most valuable thing about this book is that the kids understand that there are plenty of choices down an art path. It's not just drawing as a hobby, there is a lot of personal and financial investment. There are also plenty of career choices: some can work as video game creators, writers, comic book creators (coloring or drawing, or inking), or do something related to video games and movies. Dale wishes the school could teach more about art so that they could explore more before they have to pick a career (so early in life, way too much pressure for middle schoolers). It would be great for young kids to know all the choices they can make that are more suitable to one's preferences.
More than hard work the best tool to have is family support. It's ok to educate the child on the pros and cons but supporting the journey is as important. Sometimes it's alright to try and change our minds by at least giving our best and then we can make the right choices.
I love that Dale created an art club in his school and that the author brought the question of making money to the table, writing the story in a way that the "mean" teacher challenges the existence of the art club as a profitable club or not. And having that pressure is important because, unlike other "stable" professions, being an artist can result in a lot of searching for the next commission or company to work for. It should be taught as well to deal with such stress.
The author points out that if it is your passion don't let others make you quit. Be tenacious like Dale. Take art seriously like a full-time job if art is part of who you are.
The most valuable thing about this book is that the kids understand that there are plenty of choices down an art path. It's not just drawing as a hobby, there is a lot of personal and financial investment. There are also plenty of career choices: some can work as video game creators, writers, comic book creators (coloring or drawing, or inking), or do something related to video games and movies. Dale wishes the school could teach more about art so that they could explore more before they have to pick a career (so early in life, way too much pressure for middle schoolers). It would be great for young kids to know all the choices they can make that are more suitable to one's preferences.
More than hard work the best tool to have is family support. It's ok to educate the child on the pros and cons but supporting the journey is as important. Sometimes it's alright to try and change our minds by at least giving our best and then we can make the right choices.
I love that Dale created an art club in his school and that the author brought the question of making money to the table, writing the story in a way that the "mean" teacher challenges the existence of the art club as a profitable club or not. And having that pressure is important because, unlike other "stable" professions, being an artist can result in a lot of searching for the next commission or company to work for. It should be taught as well to deal with such stress.
The author points out that if it is your passion don't let others make you quit. Be tenacious like Dale. Take art seriously like a full-time job if art is part of who you are.
April 5, 2024
Art Club is a middle grade graphic novel by illustrator and author Rashad Doucet. Doucet states that the story of Art Club is based on his own experience growing up as an art kid, who loved to doodle and draw. I find this personal connection to the story very heartwarming, and makes the story more relatable. Art Club follows Middle schooler Dale Donavan, a very creative child who loves drawing, playing video games and creating comics. He dreams of doing these things as a full time career when he grows up. But he is conflicted because of his grandfather wanting him to focus on school, and other adults telling him there is no future career in art. The school he is at has an underfunded and struggling arts program that does little to nothing for the creative kid. Dale gets inspired to show the adults they are wrong by starting an after school art club for himself and his friends who are like minded in their creative pursuits.
I really enjoyed this book because it shows younger artists that there are careers in art, and that there is a large variety in career paths they can choose. It shows them that their creative strengths can be careers, and that they should choose the path that works for them, not the one that is conventional by tradition. I like that the author brings up the idea of art as a profitable commodity through the teacher questioning the clubs profitability. There's an idea that all creative efforts have to be something monetizable. I like that this book shows children they can just create, there is no pressure to make a profit. Overall, I really enjoyed this book, its message, and the overall artstyle. I think that it is something that could benefit younger artists as they grow.
I really enjoyed this book because it shows younger artists that there are careers in art, and that there is a large variety in career paths they can choose. It shows them that their creative strengths can be careers, and that they should choose the path that works for them, not the one that is conventional by tradition. I like that the author brings up the idea of art as a profitable commodity through the teacher questioning the clubs profitability. There's an idea that all creative efforts have to be something monetizable. I like that this book shows children they can just create, there is no pressure to make a profit. Overall, I really enjoyed this book, its message, and the overall artstyle. I think that it is something that could benefit younger artists as they grow.
read-comix
February 20, 2024“Part of growing up is knowing when to weed out the thoughts that hinder your progress.”
Dale Donavan has heard the same lecture over and over— Art will get you nowhere in life. He is a middle schooler that wants nothing more than to doodle, play video games, and create comics forever. His grandfather is pushing him to focus on his studies, and his school focuses on math and science, so Dale feels like his future has already been decided for him.
Then Dale decides he wants to start an after-school art club; he wants to show the adults that the arts are important and can be a career, too. He has to find three more students to fill the club, and somehow find a way to get funding, so his hands are full.
Meet the rest of the club:
Aren - Dale’s best friend, basketball player
Mackenzie - video game designer
Kya - outspoken art enthusiast
Miss Ja'nae - faculty sponsor
The assistant principal, Mr. Ruffin, was an awful, stubborn man. He clearly has a vendetta against art programs, but this wasn’t really expanded on. He had the most unrealistic expectations, but I’m so glad the kids didn’t quit, as what the club was able to accomplish was spectacular! I loved how they banded together and focused on art in its many forms.
Dale had a special bond with his grandmother, who shared her love of comics with him. I loved seeing these flashbacks throughout the story; they even made me tear up a little. Obviously Dale’s grandfather was having a hard time after her death, but seeing his and Dale’s relationship develop was the highlight of the book for me.
I think fans of New Kid will love this one, too.
Dale Donavan has heard the same lecture over and over— Art will get you nowhere in life. He is a middle schooler that wants nothing more than to doodle, play video games, and create comics forever. His grandfather is pushing him to focus on his studies, and his school focuses on math and science, so Dale feels like his future has already been decided for him.
Then Dale decides he wants to start an after-school art club; he wants to show the adults that the arts are important and can be a career, too. He has to find three more students to fill the club, and somehow find a way to get funding, so his hands are full.
Meet the rest of the club:
Aren - Dale’s best friend, basketball player
Mackenzie - video game designer
Kya - outspoken art enthusiast
Miss Ja'nae - faculty sponsor
The assistant principal, Mr. Ruffin, was an awful, stubborn man. He clearly has a vendetta against art programs, but this wasn’t really expanded on. He had the most unrealistic expectations, but I’m so glad the kids didn’t quit, as what the club was able to accomplish was spectacular! I loved how they banded together and focused on art in its many forms.
Dale had a special bond with his grandmother, who shared her love of comics with him. I loved seeing these flashbacks throughout the story; they even made me tear up a little. Obviously Dale’s grandfather was having a hard time after her death, but seeing his and Dale’s relationship develop was the highlight of the book for me.
I think fans of New Kid will love this one, too.
March 11, 2024
This book is not your typical fun and adventurous graphic novels about children in art clubs. Rather, this book felt like a career book that had characters learn about what they can do with art such as being a comic artist, a designer, and something in the advertisement industry (or somewhere along the lines of that). The author really emphasizes how the stereotypical jobs that are ideal according to the "old generation" is picking career paths along the STEM route and really took and ran with it when it came to showing how science and math are put in higher priorities in the education system than the arts. To me, I felt like this is half true if it were around the 90's but living in today's time, I think this is also not quite true. Perhaps when it comes to old fashioned mindset like the Asian communities, this may be true that parents and families do push their future generations along the STEM route; but I also feel like the arts has also been embraced from the content creator/Instagram/Tik Tok/Youtube influences in the last couple of years.
This book was definitely something different and I can see how important it is for this to be written and although this book was drawn in graphic novel storyline form (with hardly any storyline...), I think this book would actually do better as a career book with graphics (no story form) with each chapter talking about different career paths one can take if the child/reader would like to choose an art influenced career. With graphics, it would appeal to young readers, to which I think that is the audience the author is going for.
This book was definitely something different and I can see how important it is for this to be written and although this book was drawn in graphic novel storyline form (with hardly any storyline...), I think this book would actually do better as a career book with graphics (no story form) with each chapter talking about different career paths one can take if the child/reader would like to choose an art influenced career. With graphics, it would appeal to young readers, to which I think that is the audience the author is going for.
August 9, 2024
Dale vs. Evil Vice Principal, Mr. Ruffins!
Dale's next major project in Mr. Ruffins' class is to write a report on what career he will choose. The teacher insists that it has to be a stable job that makes lots of money. And even his Grandpa tells him jobs aren't supposed to be fun. But Dale wants a job that makes him happy - one where he can do the things he loves - draw, hang with his friends, and play an awesome video game that his Grandma introduced him to. He does a lot of research into video game creating but he eventually chooses art - specifically creating comic books. But his teacher refuses to consider art as a serious career. When Dale disagrees, he is sent to the Principal. Fortunately the principal is more understanding. Sort of. He agrees to let Dale start an after-school art club - but with lots of strings attached.
Dale convinces his best friend, Aren and another classmate, Mackenzie, to join the club. And then Kya joins - and together they eventually convince one of their teachers, Miss Je'nae, to sponsor the club.
There are lots of bumps and hiccups along the way. The kids learn a lot about themselves, their talents, their community, and their families. Feelings are hurt. Apologies are made. And some people even change. But not the Evil Vice Principal. I don't think we ever find out why he is such a mean guy.
I think this would appeal to kids that like the Jerry Craft's New Kid books, Jarrett J. Krosoczka's books, or Dan Santat's A First Time for Everything.
Dale's next major project in Mr. Ruffins' class is to write a report on what career he will choose. The teacher insists that it has to be a stable job that makes lots of money. And even his Grandpa tells him jobs aren't supposed to be fun. But Dale wants a job that makes him happy - one where he can do the things he loves - draw, hang with his friends, and play an awesome video game that his Grandma introduced him to. He does a lot of research into video game creating but he eventually chooses art - specifically creating comic books. But his teacher refuses to consider art as a serious career. When Dale disagrees, he is sent to the Principal. Fortunately the principal is more understanding. Sort of. He agrees to let Dale start an after-school art club - but with lots of strings attached.
Dale convinces his best friend, Aren and another classmate, Mackenzie, to join the club. And then Kya joins - and together they eventually convince one of their teachers, Miss Je'nae, to sponsor the club.
There are lots of bumps and hiccups along the way. The kids learn a lot about themselves, their talents, their community, and their families. Feelings are hurt. Apologies are made. And some people even change. But not the Evil Vice Principal. I don't think we ever find out why he is such a mean guy.
I think this would appeal to kids that like the Jerry Craft's New Kid books, Jarrett J. Krosoczka's books, or Dan Santat's A First Time for Everything.
April 9, 2024
I absolutely loved this book. I enjoyed the illustrations that were in the book. I also liked that the book was a graphic novel, because the main character loved comics because of his grandma. I think this worked out well because of that love of comics. I do not think it would have been as successful if it was a chapter book, but because it was a graphic novel, it helped the reader to visualize the conflicts in the book. I liked the progression in the relationship between Dale and his grandpa. Dale’s grandpa kept talking about careers that Dale could think about or do when he grew up. I feel for Dale because when I was his age I was not sure what I wanted to do when I grew up. I think that this relates to students because in middle school, students might not know what they want to do when they grow up. I would have this in my art classroom one day, so students can see that being an artist is an option as a career. I do not think that older adults, like grandparents, etc. understand that art can be a career, there are many different options for students to branch out in the art community. Graphic designers, interior designers, etc. are also options that students can take. I enjoyed this book because it was a fast read and because it was apart of my content area and I could relate this to myself as well.
June 6, 2024
Dale Donovan loves comics and videogames, so when he’s tasked with the assignment of researching a future career, Dale focuses on something he’s truly passionate about: writing and drawing comics. Unfortunately, his stuffy vice principal Ruffins turns his nose up at Dale’s presentation, dismissing the idea that anyone can make a living as an artist. To prove Ruffins wrong, Dale starts an afterschool art club--but Ruffins immediately imposes some challenging rules on the club: first, Dale has to find a teacher to sponsor it, which isn’t easy at a school where all arts activities have been cut from the budget; second, he has to recruit other kids to join; and third, the club has to make money--$1000 dollars!--to convince Ruffins of its worth. Dale is just a kid with some colored pencils and a dream...but maybe that’s all it takes?
This is quiet graphic novel will resonate with fans of art and school stories. While Ruffins is a villain without much depth and the rules he imposes on Dale's club stretch credulity (what kind of school administrator would set kids up to fail?), I really liked how this story introduces different kinds of art movements and different ways of turning art into a career.
This is quiet graphic novel will resonate with fans of art and school stories. While Ruffins is a villain without much depth and the rules he imposes on Dale's club stretch credulity (what kind of school administrator would set kids up to fail?), I really liked how this story introduces different kinds of art movements and different ways of turning art into a career.
January 24, 2025
Community Read 2025 Youth companion title. "Art is..."
Art Club follows the formation of... you guessed it: an art club. Dale is a middle schooler at Moss Town Middle and he's been given an assignment to do a presentation on a career of his choice. With his love of comics (instilled in him by a beloved grandmother) and love video games (which he shares with his best friend), he chooses to write about being a comic creator. Unfortunately, his teacher finds flaws in his report. The solution is that Dale will form a profitable art club by the end of the semester.
No spoilers!
I will say that it was a delight to get to know Dale and his friends. The characters are well-rounded and fully developed and full of spunk. And the art throughout the book is absolutely fantastic. The author-illustrator is so talented! And a great bonus: there's a few pages at the end that show Rashad Doucet's process in creating the book! So neat to see a behind-the-scenes view.
Art Club lost a star with me for how the plot climaxed and concluded. Still no spoilers... but it wasn't my fave.
Still, I don't think I'll struggle to book talk this one during Community Read. I'll lean on the lovable characters and great art. :)
Art Club follows the formation of... you guessed it: an art club. Dale is a middle schooler at Moss Town Middle and he's been given an assignment to do a presentation on a career of his choice. With his love of comics (instilled in him by a beloved grandmother) and love video games (which he shares with his best friend), he chooses to write about being a comic creator. Unfortunately, his teacher finds flaws in his report. The solution is that Dale will form a profitable art club by the end of the semester.
No spoilers!
I will say that it was a delight to get to know Dale and his friends. The characters are well-rounded and fully developed and full of spunk. And the art throughout the book is absolutely fantastic. The author-illustrator is so talented! And a great bonus: there's a few pages at the end that show Rashad Doucet's process in creating the book! So neat to see a behind-the-scenes view.
Art Club lost a star with me for how the plot climaxed and concluded. Still no spoilers... but it wasn't my fave.
Still, I don't think I'll struggle to book talk this one during Community Read. I'll lean on the lovable characters and great art. :)
March 12, 2024
I think my big disconnect with this graphic novel is that it doesn't feel like it's set at the sole public middle school in a small town. It just doesn't feel plausible that a public middle school would have absolutely zero fine arts education. It's a legal requirement in almost all states. That aside, it just isn't credible that no parents over the course of decades have even a passing interest in seeing their children receive a well rounded education. Making this a private school or even a STEM magnet school would make a lot more sense. I'm not saying that young readers won't identify with feeling pressured to commit to a practical career path, because that's very common from well meaning adults. And there does need to be a balance between encouraging dreams and encouraging plans. It's genuinely extremely difficult to make a living as a freelance artist, and facing and planning for that reality is part of good career planning. And most of this book is trying to do exactly that, in an age appropriate way. And showing age appropriate skill levels! The art these kids display looks like kids' art, and I think a lot of young readers will find that encouraging.
March 19, 2024
Dale wants nothing more than to spend his time drawing, gaming, and creating comics. But everyone around him, from his grandfather to his vice-principal, constantly reminds him that art will get you nowhere.
When Dale sets out to prove everyone wrong by starting up an art club at school, his evil vice-principal makes things even more difficult by setting seemingly impossible goals for the club. By the end of the semester, they have to have raised $500 to prove that the club was successful to continue. Can Dale and his friends make it happen?
What worked for me: Watching Dale and his friends problem-solve and work to make the art club a success despite the people who didn't want it to succeed was a story that some students will relate to.
What didn't work for me: The vice-principal was too evil. Like over-the-top bad-guy evil and it just felt like too much at times. Maybe that's how it's supposed to read because it's from the perspective of a kid, but it just felt like a lot.
When Dale sets out to prove everyone wrong by starting up an art club at school, his evil vice-principal makes things even more difficult by setting seemingly impossible goals for the club. By the end of the semester, they have to have raised $500 to prove that the club was successful to continue. Can Dale and his friends make it happen?
What worked for me: Watching Dale and his friends problem-solve and work to make the art club a success despite the people who didn't want it to succeed was a story that some students will relate to.
What didn't work for me: The vice-principal was too evil. Like over-the-top bad-guy evil and it just felt like too much at times. Maybe that's how it's supposed to read because it's from the perspective of a kid, but it just felt like a lot.
May 14, 2024
The age-old question: Can you make money as an artist?
I really liked the exploration of being able to love art and make money from it, the hardnose teacher who actually wants the best for the students but antagonizes them, and the different jobs an artist can have.
The artwork is very sketchy but expressive. The ending felt a little farfetched, but I liked the spotlight on art festivals
Also, maybe it's for the best how encroaching AI is in the art space wasn't mentioned.
I really liked the exploration of being able to love art and make money from it, the hardnose teacher who actually wants the best for the students but antagonizes them, and the different jobs an artist can have.
The artwork is very sketchy but expressive. The ending felt a little farfetched, but I liked the spotlight on art festivals
Also, maybe it's for the best how encroaching AI is in the art space wasn't mentioned.
December 29, 2024
Contemporary graphic novel about middle school students for ages 8-12. I like the style and the characters. Good message about doing what you love and researching careers in art. New and old relationships, some adults are supportive and some are not, some conflicts come up and are resolved by talking it out. My only complaint is that the kids are much smaller than the adults, plus they are cute, so they look like they're 7 or 8 years old. Even though I knew they were in middle school, I kept having an underlying feeling of being confused/surprised by how mature they were acting and the level of skills they had. Then I would realize it and remind myself they are in middle school. Perhaps the creator was trying to convey how they feel small and powerless? I think that would only happen in the certain panels--not in the whole book. Anyway, it was good and there is great material in the back about creating comics/graphic novels.
January 15, 2025
Art Club is a cute graphic novel following some middle schoolers as they work to create an art club at their school to prove it is a viable career path.
The illustrations were super well-done, and all of the characters were super expressive and had wonderful facial expressions. Each of the characters was distinct, which helped keep it entertaining since they each had such different personalities/styles.
I did find that some of the things in the plot were just a bit too convenient for the characters, so it seemed a bit unrealistic plot-wise. I also wished there was less focus on the "make a decision on the financially-stable career you will have for the rest of your life" bit, as kids that young shouldn't need to decide on a career choice for life yet. There are plenty of reasons why art programs aren't always emphasized at schools which could have been alternate plot points.
The illustrations were super well-done, and all of the characters were super expressive and had wonderful facial expressions. Each of the characters was distinct, which helped keep it entertaining since they each had such different personalities/styles.
I did find that some of the things in the plot were just a bit too convenient for the characters, so it seemed a bit unrealistic plot-wise. I also wished there was less focus on the "make a decision on the financially-stable career you will have for the rest of your life" bit, as kids that young shouldn't need to decide on a career choice for life yet. There are plenty of reasons why art programs aren't always emphasized at schools which could have been alternate plot points.
November 16, 2023
I really loved this middle grade graphic novel following gamer and comic book nerd, Dale, as he and his friends come together to start an after school art club. Dale's grandmother introduced him to her love of comic books at a young age. Now that she's passed, Dale doesn't have anyone to connect with about his interests. His grandfather has a green thumb and is more worried about Dale finding a passionate that will result into a high paying job. His mother works a lot and his father is deployed. His school doesn't even have an art class. When Dale was assigned a project to research a future career field that he has to prove could support him, he and his best friend Aren begin their search for club members and a teacher to support them. I loved this story and think it would benefit a lot of young creatives who may not think art is a viable future. The art was really cool especially in the parts where the fantasy role playing game Dale and his friends play is the setting.
December 19, 2024
"Art Club" was an engaging and visually captivating graphic novel that celebrates creativity, friendship, and the pursuit of passion despite societal pressures. The story follows Dale Donavan, a young aspiring artist, as he fights to prove the value of art in a world that often dismisses its importance.
Dale's determination to start an after-school art club and show that art can be both meaningful and viable resonates deeply, especially as he navigates generational clashes and the practical hurdles of proving art's worth. The vibrant artwork complements the story beautifully, drawing readers into Dale's imaginative world and the challenges he faces.
I particularly appreciated the exploration of themes like intergenerational differences, capitalism, and the power of community, making it a thought-provoking yet fun read.
Dale's determination to start an after-school art club and show that art can be both meaningful and viable resonates deeply, especially as he navigates generational clashes and the practical hurdles of proving art's worth. The vibrant artwork complements the story beautifully, drawing readers into Dale's imaginative world and the challenges he faces.
I particularly appreciated the exploration of themes like intergenerational differences, capitalism, and the power of community, making it a thought-provoking yet fun read.
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