A review by enbybooklove
Everywhere Beauty Is Harlem: The Vision of Photographer Roy DeCarava by Gary Golio

emotional informative inspiring mysterious reflective

4.75

I received a digital ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for a review.

This book is an enchanting portrayal of Harlem's daily life, magically captured not through the featured photographer's lens, but through the vibrant and muted watercolor paintings that replace expected photographs. The artistic narrative includes meta references, such as a child chalking a picture, who is simultaneously being photographed and painted, blurring the lines between different artistic mediums. The inclusion of a photo of Harlem by an unknown artist adds to the mystery, prompting questions about the unseen photographer's art. Simple yet profound, the text conveys important messages, resonating deeply with both children and adults alike. The muted but bright colors, especially the breathtaking lilac tones, enhance the visual narrative, capturing the neighborhood's chaotic camaraderie in a way that is both beautiful and magical.