A review by caroparr
I, Juan de Pareja: The Story of a Great Painter and the Slave He Helped Become a Great Artist by Elizabeth Borton De Trevino

3.0

In all my years as a children's librarian, I had never read this Newbery winner, but Spain inspired me. I enjoyed revisiting some parts of our trip and especially de Trevino's interpretation of Velazquez. I did find the story a bit slow once Juan made it to Velazquez's household. I also found Juan's character was almost saintly in his forbearance, rather than the man I see in Velazquez's portrait, someone who is strong, direct, and self-possessed. Would like to find more about him.