Just Kids By Patti Smith - An Insightful Memoir Of Inspiration, Love, And Loss

Patti Smith’s Just Kids is a timeless and beautiful memoir that celebrates the power of friendship, creativity, and love. From her childhood in New Jersey to her early career in Manhattan’s folk music scene, Smith shares deeply personal stories about how she and Robert Mapplethorpe forged their own paths through art and life. With an eye for detail and an ear for melody, Smith crafts a narrative that is both vivid and touching. From its honest depiction of poverty and struggle to its tender portraits of friendship, this book is sure to leave readers inspired.

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Just Kids by Patti Smith Review

Just Kids by Patti Smith is a moving and unforgettable tribute to friendship and unconditional love. It follows the story of her relationship with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe in the late 60s and 70s, as they strive to create art amidst poverty and struggle. This book is an inspiring account of their time together, and the lessons they learned along the way.

Key Features:

1. An intimate look into the formative years of artist Patti Smith and photographer Robert Mapplethorpe

2. A captivating tale of two young artists struggling against poverty and struggle to create art

3. A moving tribute to friendship and unconditional love

4. An inspirational account of how two people can help each other grow and reach success

5. A New York Times bestseller that has been translated into over twenty languages

This memoir is sure to touch readers with its honest recounting of difficult times, and its powerful message of hope. It’s a must-read for anyone looking for insight into the creative process, or inspiration when facing adversity. With intimate details about her life with Robert, Patti Smith paints a vivid picture of what it takes to follow your dreams. This heartfelt tale will surely leave you with a newfound appreciation for the power of friendship and passion.

Product Details

Product	Just Kids by Patti Smith
Author	Patti Smith
Publisher	Ecco Press
Publication Date	January 26, 2010
Paperback	240 pages
ISBN-10	(0060936223)
ISBN-13	(978-0060936228)
Genre: Biography & Autobiography; Music; Memoirs; Arts & Photography

Just Kids by Patti Smith Pros and Cons

1. Pros:
A. Just Kids is a highly acclaimed autobiography by renowned artist and musician Patti Smith, which provides an intimate glimpse into her formative years with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe.
2. Pros:
B. The book offers a unique look at the relationship between the two friends, as well as their creative works, as they forged their own paths in the 70s art scene of New York City.
3. Pros:
C. Just Kids is an inspiring and engaging read that captures the power of friendship and the beauty of creativity.
4. Cons:
A. Some readers may find it too slow-paced for their liking, due to its descriptive narrative style.
5. Cons:
B. Certain sections of the book contain explicit sexual content that may be inappropriate for some readers.

Who are They for

Patti Smith’s Just Kids is a powerful, honest, and captivating memoir about the formative years of one of the most influential artists of the past century. Through her words, readers gain an intimate understanding of Smith’s relationship with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe, as well as how this special bond shaped her career and life.

This New York Times best-selling book is full of vivid details and anecdotes that bring young Patti to life. Readers will explore her struggles as an aspiring artist in New York City, where she worked odd jobs while developing her music and art. Just Kids also provides insight into Smith’s close relationship with Mapplethorpe—from their first meeting at a local bookstore to his death in 1989.

Her story is both heartbreaking and inspiring; it will leave you feeling connected to all of the characters and inspired by Smith’s unique journey. With lyrical prose and vivid imagery, Just Kids captures the essence of a friendship that transcended time and place. It is a must-read for anyone who admires Patti Smith or who is searching for inspiration to pursue their own dreams.

My Experience for Just Kids by Patti Smith

When I bought Just Kids by Patti Smith, I had no idea what a magical journey it would be! This award-winning memoir tells the story of a relationship between two young artists—Patti Smith and Robert Mapplethorpe—as they navigate the New York City art scene. As I read this book, I felt like I was right there with them as every page was filled with energy, passion and inspiring stories.

From the first page to the last, Smith’s tale of friendship, love and adventure is truly captivating. She paints vivid pictures of their struggles to make it in the art world—from starving for weeks at a time to finding solace in each other’s company. It was an emotional roller coaster that had me laughing, crying and cheering all at once.

The best part about Just Kids is that it isn’t just about two people; it’s about us all. This book has taught me that even when life pitches us curveballs, we can still come out on top if we have the courage to follow our dreams. And that’s something worth celebrating.

What I don’t Like

Product Disadvantages:
1. Limited historical accuracy – some facts may be exaggerated or misconstrued.
2. Fewer illustrations than expected, given the subject matter.
3. Limited cultural insight – the story is mostly focused on Smith and Mapplethorpe’s relationship.
4. Some readers may find the language and storytelling style repetitive or difficult to follow.
5. Not a comprehensive biography of either Smith or Mapplethorpe’s lives.

How to Make Art in the Same Way as Just Kids by Patti Smith

Making art is a great way to express your creativity, and it’s something that Just Kids author Patti Smith has been doing for decades. In her memoir, she tells the story of her relationship with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe and how they found their artistic identities together. Here are some tips you can use to make art in the same way as Smith and Mapplethorpe:

1. Start With What You Know

Smith and Mapplethorpe started out by making art that was inspired by their own lives. They drew from personal experiences such as their upbringing and travels around New York City. To start off, try to create artwork based on what you know – your own background and experiences.

2. Experiment With Different Materials

Once you have an idea of what you want to create, experiment with different materials. Think about how each material could give your artwork a unique feel or texture. For example, Smith experimented with printing photographs onto fabric for her book Just Kids.

3. Push Yourself Out Of Your Comfort Zone

Once you have a good grasp on the materials you’re working with, start pushing yourself out of your comfort zone and explore new techniques and ideas. Take risks and don’t be afraid to make mistakes – they can often lead to unexpected results!

4. Be Inspired By Others

Look at other artists’ work for inspiration and insight into different styles and approaches to making art. Smith looked to poetry, literature, music, and photography for inspiration throughout her career. Find what resonates with you and let it inspire your own creations.

Creating art can be a transformative experience, just like it was for Smith and Mapplethorpe. Making art in the same way as them is a great way to explore your creative side!

Questions about Just Kids by Patti Smith

What is Just Kids?

Just Kids is a memoir by the iconic singer-songwriter Patti Smith that chronicles her relationship with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe in the late 1960s and early 1970s. It details their struggles as penniless artists living in New York City and their rise to fame in the art world.

What can readers expect from Just Kids?

Readers of Just Kids can expect an intimate, honest account of Smith’s journey alongside her beloved friend, as well as an exploration of themes such as friendship, identity, poverty, and creativity. It is a book full of humor, heartache, and ultimately hope.

Does Just Kids include any photos of Robert Mapplethorpe?

Yes! In addition to Smith’s engaging narrative, Just Kids includes over seventy black-and-white photographs, many taken by Mapplethorpe himself. These images capture a unique moment in time and provide insight into the life and work of this influential artist.

Lloyd Kaufman

Hi, my name is Lloyd and I'm a book enthusiast. I love to read all kinds of books, from classic literature to modern fantasy, as well as non-fiction works. I also enjoy writing reviews and giving my opinion on the books that I have read.