Maybe you know her as a fearless female singer, or the poet whose wandering lyrics are composed of tributes to everyone from Rimbaud to Jim Morrison. Whatever your notions of Patti Smith, she is proving once again that her artistic license with words knows no other. Just Kids, a tender autobiography of Smith and her artistic life partner, Robert Mapplethorpe traces the two as they carve their way into the art world. There is something so kind about Smith and Mapplethorpe’s relationship, and the reader gets the chance to see how the two influenced each other. We also get a window in the vibrant scene of New York through the 196o’s and into the eighties. The book is chocked full of a who’s who in rock and roll, plus some factory kids.
The book is incredibly inspiring for girls hoping to follow an artistic path. Smith followed her dreams and ideas even when she could hardly pay for food. We get to watch the transformation of Robert Mapplethorpe and see how he helps to elevate the status of Art Photography. A great inspiring for anyone interested in Smith, Mapplethorpe or just a magical and gritty journey of two people who love each other.