Magic Trash: A Story of Tyree Guyton and His Art

Plan on using this story to teach an art lesson.

My students really enjoyed this book and learning about this artist! They made portraits out of trash in the style of Tyree's "Faces of God" works.

I had bought this book for my elementary art classroom. I tried reading it aloud to my 7 year old daughter and honestly, I found the language awkward and sometimes I’d read a page and not truly understand the message of the page. I definitely will not be using this as a teacher- it is long, wordy, and difficult to understand at times.

This book makes me so proud of Detroit “back home” and teaches kids about how art can be a response to trouble in the world. So much to discuss here. The writing is lyrical.

I read Magic Trash to students in grades K - 2. They commented that they liked the pictures and they liked how Tyree's grandfather helped him. There is a lot to relate to in the story, that follows Tyree from elementary school through his success as an artist. The book led to discussions about dreams, mentoring, perseverance and reality (Tyree works a few jobs to pay the bills before he returns to his art). Students were fascinated by the illustrations showing the things Tyree made from found 'trash'. They also enjoyed reciting the poetic refrains. In addition, the book captures some of the turmoil that Detroit experienced in the late 1960's and how it changed the city. Secondary lessons were about cooperation and teamwork and how the neighborhood worked together to bring about change. The book was meaningful and inspirational and sparked the children's imaginations.

This is a great story about Tyree Guyton. It instills the love for art in children - no matter your background. I'm excited to read this to my students in art class!

Love this story! Great visuals! Excited to use for Dor Day!

Perfectly written to make Guyton's art understandable for elementary students.