
Curve and Flow: The Elegant Vision of L.A. Architect Paul R. Williams
by Andrea J. Loney
illustrated by Keith Mallett
Penguin Random House Knopf, September 27, 2022
ISBN-10: 0593429079
ISBN: 9780593429075
Discover the remarkable story of an orphaned Black boy who grew up to become the groundbreaking architect to the stars, Paul R. Williams. A stunning nonfiction picture-book biography from the Caldecott Honor–winning author and NAACP Image Award–nominated artist.
As an orphaned Black boy growing up in America in the early 1900s, Paul R. Williams became obsessed by the concept of “home.” He not only dreamed of building his own home, he turned his dreams into drawings. Defying the odds and breaking down the wall of racism, Williams was able to curve around the obstacles in his way to become a world-renowned architect. He designed homes for the biggest celebrities of the day, such as Frank Sinatra and Lucille Ball, and created a number of buildings in Los Angeles that are now considered landmarks.
Reviews
“The amazing artwork is detailed and nuanced… This inspiring account has multiple applications and excels on multiple levels.”
~Booklist Starred Review
“An inspiring tribute to a determined dreamer and doer constructed with admirable verve.”
~Kirkus Starred Review
“Alongside the … text, the illustrations reinforce this theme of overcoming adversity. They convey grace, warmth, and dignity … and expressive figures who fairly shine and glow.”
~The Horn Book Review

AWARDS & RECOGNITION
Center for the Study of Multicultural Children’s Literature Best Books, 2013-2025 Selection 2022
Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People, 2015-2025 Biography Selection, 2023
Kansas NEA Reading Circle 2024
El día de los niños / El día de los libros, 2013-2025 Selection, 2024
Louisiana Young Readers’ Choice Award, 2025, Grades 3-5
MISelf in Books, 2023, Upper Elementary
Nevada Reading Week 2024 Read Alouds for PreK
