Banksy Graffitied walls and wasn't sorry

Who's that figure dressed all in black? A robber or spy? No, it's elusive graffiti and performance artist Banksy, as rendered by Italian author-illustrator Gilberti. The figure's large eyes, partially hidden under a black hood, and spindly legs give Banksy a cartoonish appearance that adds to his mystique. Accompanied by black-and-white illustrations that are at once stark and playful, this picture-book biography, narrated in the first person from Banksy's perspective, describes his early start as a graffiti artist who was never caught or revealed and his success as a performance artist with such stunts as putting shark fins in a London lake, secretly hanging his own art in plain sight in world-renowned art museums, and electronically shredding one of his paintings just after it was bought. The book also addresses Banksy's political and subversive messages and theories on his (or her or their) identity. Paired with a photo of an original Banksy, a concluding author's note provides more details about Banksy's history and reputation. A delightful, reverent tribute to the irreverent artist.

PreS-Gr 2--How do you write a biography about an icon whose identity remains a mystery? This picture book biography, told in first person, attempts to capture the spirit of world-renowned graffiti artist Banksy. Because the identity of one of the world's most mysterious artists is unknown, the book focuses on some of the more famous exploits including Dismaland and the artist's affinity for rats. Banksy is featured as a hooded character in black, with luminous large eyes. Comic reinterpretations of some signature pieces of art and pranks largely in black and white are featured throughout the book. The book succeeds in portraying Banksy's playful approach to art and resistance to conventional art, but fails to give readers a visual of Banksy art. Only one photograph of a Banksy is included in the title, offering few points of reference or context for readers unfamiliar with the artist. No back matter or source notes are included. VERDICT Those looking for more insight into Banksy's identity and art best keep looking. Skip this one.--Jennifer Knight, North Olympic Lib. Syst., Port Angeles, WA

An Italian author/illustrator pays homage to Banksy, the world-famous, anonymous street artist. Readers see Banksy on the book's first spread, saying in a plainspoken, first-person narration, "Nobody knows who I really am, and that way, I stay out of trouble." All humans in the book, including Banksy, are depicted in an offbeat, stylized cartoon manner, with stick arms and legs and oversized, bulging eyes; they are all black forms with paper-white faces on uncluttered, solid white backgrounds. Banksy hides in hooded black clothing, only eyes and a nose showing, describing artistic themes (anti-war, political, environmental); media (spray paint and stencils, sculpture); style (graffiti); and subjects (rats, soldiers, the Mona Lisa). Banksy also tells readers about various exhibitions and artistic projects--including the more-well-known ones (the painting that self-destructed in a shredder after purchase); the lesser-known ones (filling a meat truck with stuffed animals); and the exceptionally elaborate ones (Dismaland)--and theories about who Banksy is. ("There are lots of different theories. Some of them…pretty wild!") Banksy speaks with a wry sense of humor and, just as the title indicates, without apology ("I do it without permission and I'm not sorry"), also emphasizing that art should be for everyone, not just the rich: "I don't really like selling my work for lots of money." Appended is more information about Banksy and a reproduction of Girl With Balloon. (This book was reviewed digitally with 8.46-by-16.92-inch double-page spreads viewed at actual size.) A reverent, felicitous, and accessible introduction to one of the world's most subversive artists. (Informational picture book. 5-10) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.