Exploring Luis Paints the World by Terry Farish: A Complete Review and Discussion Guide

Mikayla Young
Sep 22
5 min read

In the engaging realm of children's literature, Luis Paints the World by Terry Farish, illustrated by Oliver Dominguez, stands out as a captivating tale. This book not only entertains but imparts significant lessons on creativity, cultural expression, and the strength of community. In this post, we’ll provide essential details about the book, a thorough synopsis, a rating and review, engaging discussion questions and activities, and insights into the talented author and illustrator.

Book Information

Title: Luis Paints the World
Author: Terry Farish
Illustrator: Oliver Dominguez
Publisher: Carolrhoda Books
Publication Date: March 31, 2016
Age Category: Children's, Ages: 6+
Genres: Contemporary, Art Fiction
Format: Picture Book
Format Read in: E-book - Libby (Library)
Reading Challenges: Read Around the World - USA - Massachusetts

Book Synopsis

In a vibrant Dominican neighborhood, young Luis grapples with the impending departure of his beloved brother, Nico, who is set to enlist in the Army. Determined to show Nico the beauty of their shared life and convince him to stay, Luis embarks on a heartfelt mission to create a mural on the alleyway wall that encapsulates their world. With each stroke of his brush, he brings to life cherished memories: their family home, the shimmering river, and the lively Parque de las Ardillas. He paints scenes of laughter, from Mami's sweet flan wafting through the kitchen to the joy of baseball games played in the street. As Luis pours his heart into the mural, he discovers that the act of creation is not just a way to hold onto his brother but also a means to expand his own horizons. With the support of their bustling community, he learns about resilience, friendship, and the power of art to connect people. While he waits for Nico's return, Luis finds himself navigating the complexities of growing up, exploring new relationships, and embracing the vibrant life around him. Join Luis on this poignant journey of love, loss, and self-discovery, where every brushstroke tells a story, and the bonds of family are painted in the brightest colors of hope.

Book Rating and Review

Rating: ★★★★☆

"Luis Paints the World" by Terry Farish is a profoundly uplifting children's book that explores creativity, connection, and community. The characters are relatable and well-crafted, with Luis, the protagonist, embodying the innocence and curiosity of youth. The setting in Lawrence, Massachusetts, is vividly described, enhancing the narrative with its rich history and culture. Farish's writing is concise yet powerful, expressing profound emotions and important messages. The plot is realistic, focusing on themes of family, community, and self-expression, illustrating how art connects individuals to their emotions and one another. The beautiful illustrations complement the narrative, bringing Luis’s world to life. The book's themes include family bonds, the significance of food and objects, and the transformative power of art. The author's note provides insight into the inspiration behind the book, adding depth to the story. Overall, "Luis Paints the World" is a beautifully crafted book that entertains and inspires, highlighting the power of art, family, and community.

Discussion Questions and Activities

Before Reading

Prediction Activity: Look at the cover and illustrations. What do you think the story will be about? Write down your predictions.
Word Association: Write down words or phrases that come to mind when you hear the word "mural" or "community." Discuss as a group.
Theme Exploration: Discuss the themes of family, art, and community. How do you think these themes might be represented in a children's book?

During Reading

Illustration Analysis: Pause at various illustrations. What emotions do they convey? How do they enhance the story?
Connection to Personal Experience: As you read, think about your own experiences with family or community. Share any connections you notice with the story.
Vocabulary Building: Identify new words or phrases. Discuss their meanings and how they contribute to the story.

After Reading

Reflection Discussion: What did you think about Luis's journey? How did his mural reflect his feelings and experiences?
Creative Activity: Create your own mural on paper or a digital platform that represents your family or community. Share it with the group.
Theme Discussion: Discuss the themes of loss and resilience. How did Luis demonstrate these themes throughout the story?
Letter to a Character: Write a letter to Luis or Nico. What advice would you give them? What questions would you ask?

About the Author

Terry Farish is a celebrated author in young adult literature, renowned for her novel Either the Beginning or the End of the World, which won the Maine Literary Award and was a finalist for the Boston Author’s Club award. Her novel in verse, The Good Braider, delves into themes of identity and displacement, earning recognition as an ALA Best Book for Young Adults and winning the Lupine Award. Farish co-authored the picture book A Feast for Joseph with OD Bonny, set to be published by Groundwood Books in 2021, and penned The Cat Who Liked Potato Soup, which received the Bulletin for the Center of Children's Books Blue Ribbon and was translated into Japanese by Haruki Murakami.

Farish’s engagement with Bhutanese-Nepali refugees led to the bilingual folktale The Story of a Pumpkin. She collaborates with Bhutanese-Nepali colleagues and contributes to Kirsten Cappy’s I'm Your Neighbor Books, fostering welcoming communities through children's literature. Her writing journey, inspired by her love for animals, began with stories about them, and her dog Clara now influences her work. Conducting writing workshops, Farish encourages all ages to share their narratives, valuing collaboration with illustrators and writers. Writing for her is an exploration of the unknown, requiring years of research to understand humanity within our world. She resides in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

About the Illustrator

Oliver Dominguez, known as "the artist boy" from a young age, is a distinguished illustrator who began his journey with a steadfast dedication to his craft. His artistic skills were refined through rigorous training at The Illustration Academy and Ringling College of Art + Design. Today, Oliver is a celebrated Children's Book Artist, freelance illustrator, and professor at Ringling College, renowned for his storytelling prowess in works such as "Ellen Takes Flight," "Electrical Wizard," "Miracle Mud," and "Nacho’s Nachos." Living in Fort Myers with his family and their dogs, Cooper and Ryder, Oliver balances his professional achievements with personal interests in reading, movies, and hat making, embodying a unique blend of creativity and education.

Where to Purchase the Book

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The book is available in e-book and hardcover.

Final Thoughts

Luis Paints the World by Terry Farish, with illustrations by Oliver Dominguez, is a shining example of children's literature that embraces creativity, diversity, and community. Through Luis's journey, young readers are inspired to recognize and celebrate their unique perspectives while expressing themselves through art.

This book serves as both an engaging story and a valuable resource for discussions on identity, culture, and self-expression. With exquisite illustrations and a heartfelt message, Luis Paints the World promises to inspire young artists and thinkers alike.

If you are a parent, educator, or simply a lover of children's books, this title is a must-read. So gather your art supplies, step into the world of Luis, and let creativity guide your journey!