About This Book
This Newbery Medal-winning novel tells the compelling story of Juan de Pareja, a real-life historical figure and slave to the famous Spanish painter Diego Velázquez in the 1600s. Narrated in the first person, the book follows Juan from his childhood as an orphaned pageboy to his role as Velázquez's studio assistant, where he secretly develops his own artistic talent against the law. It explores themes of perseverance, friendship, the pursuit of dreams, and the profound injustice of slavery, culminating in Juan's eventual freedom and recognition. While celebrated for its historical detail and inspiring narrative, parents should be aware that some modern critical perspectives suggest the book's portrayal of a Black character, though well-intentioned for its time, may reflect an assimilationist viewpoint. This offers a valuable opportunity for discussion about historical context and evolving understandings of representation.
Discussion Prompts
1
What does freedom mean to Juan, and how does he achieve it?
2
Why was it against the law for Juan to paint, and how did he feel about breaking that rule?
3
How did Juan's friendship with Murillo and his relationship with Velázquez help him on his journey?
4
What challenges did Juan face, and how did he show perseverance?
5
How does this book help us understand what life was like in 17th-century Spain?
6
What does it mean to be an artist, and how did Juan express his creativity?
