Luke’s Way of Looking
Written by Nadia Wheatley, illustrated by Matt Ottley
This book tells a story about a boy, Luke, who sees—and paints—the world differently from others. His overbearing art teacher Mr. Barraclough, who demands that his students paint objects just as they appear, publicly berates him. Feeling dejected and different, Luke leaves school and finds himself at an art museum where, after wandering through galleries filled with colorful abstract art, he feels happy and “at home” for the first time. Energized by this experience, his world turns from sad and bland to one bursting with color and possibilities. Luke returns to school and art class with newfound feelings of self-confidence and self-acceptance, and happily draws a watermelon just as he sees it.
Illustrations give meaning to the story: On closer look, a reader can see how Matt Ottley’s illustrations mirror the emotions of Luke and tell a story on their own. Dull crosshatching is used at the beginning of the story to show the rigidity and power of Mr. Barraclaugh. It’s only when Luke experiences joy and belonging that Ottley’s pages lose the crosshatching and are filled with vibrant colors and energy.
Possible Discussions Pathways:
- The role of imagination in the arts
- What are essential parts of community building?
- How can we learn to be accepting of divergent points of view?
- What can we learn about standing up for our own ideas and being okay with seeing things differently? How do you feel when you are different?
- Talk about the role illustrators play in expressing emotions of the characters and the story.
- How do particular colors make you feel?
- How does body language in illustrations express feelings?
