What do you think?
Rate this book
Work in Progress: A Memoir
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • This inspiring, raw memoir traces the path Devon Rodriguez took from an abusive childhood to becoming the most followed artist on social media worldwide, as he discovered the transformative power of seeing and being seen—featuring new graphite illustrations of the people and places that shaped him.
“In his captivating memoir, Devon turns a childhood marked by poverty, abuse, and survival into something raw, beautiful, and deeply human.”—Mel Robbins, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Let Them Theory, host of The Mel Robbins Podcast
As a child, Rodriguez wondered why he lived in a single cramped room with his family, where he was beaten often and never felt safe. But despite difficult circumstances, he always believed he was going to be a successful artist.
When he was in the ninth grade, his art teacher invited him to ride the New York City subway, with one destination in the development of his craft, by drawing the commuters sitting across from him. A blank page in his sketchbook was something Rodriguez could control in an otherwise chaotic life.
In this astonishing memoir, he explains how his art, his grandmother, and his own relentless drive saved him from heart-wrenching circumstances and led him to redefine out-of-fashion realist portraiture as fresh and magical.
Rodriguez writes with rhythm, verve, and an artist’s POV, painting a vivid picture of his native Bronx, the tattoos and rooftop graffiti that mesmerized him as a kid, and the teachers who saw his potential and nourished it.
Painting regular people in all their complexity is Rodriguez’s gift and his offering to the world, an old-school act that has made him a new-school star. Work in Progress delivers Rodriguez’s most precise and moving portrait of himself.
“In his captivating memoir, Devon turns a childhood marked by poverty, abuse, and survival into something raw, beautiful, and deeply human.”—Mel Robbins, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Let Them Theory, host of The Mel Robbins Podcast
As a child, Rodriguez wondered why he lived in a single cramped room with his family, where he was beaten often and never felt safe. But despite difficult circumstances, he always believed he was going to be a successful artist.
When he was in the ninth grade, his art teacher invited him to ride the New York City subway, with one destination in the development of his craft, by drawing the commuters sitting across from him. A blank page in his sketchbook was something Rodriguez could control in an otherwise chaotic life.
In this astonishing memoir, he explains how his art, his grandmother, and his own relentless drive saved him from heart-wrenching circumstances and led him to redefine out-of-fashion realist portraiture as fresh and magical.
Rodriguez writes with rhythm, verve, and an artist’s POV, painting a vivid picture of his native Bronx, the tattoos and rooftop graffiti that mesmerized him as a kid, and the teachers who saw his potential and nourished it.
Painting regular people in all their complexity is Rodriguez’s gift and his offering to the world, an old-school act that has made him a new-school star. Work in Progress delivers Rodriguez’s most precise and moving portrait of himself.
368 pages, Hardcover
Published September 29, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
Read
July 13, 2026Work in Progress is an inspiring and deeply personal memoir that goes far beyond the story of artistic success. Devon Rodriguez offers an honest account of resilience, creativity, and determination, showing how talent, persistence, and authenticity can transform even the most difficult beginnings into extraordinary opportunities.
One of the book's greatest strengths is its emotional honesty. Rodriguez doesn't present success as something that happened overnight or through luck alone. Instead, he shares how art became both an escape and a lifeline during a childhood marked by adversity, illustrating the remarkable role creativity can play in healing, self-expression, and personal growth.
I particularly appreciated the way the memoir captures the intersection of traditional artistic skill and modern digital culture. Rodriguez demonstrates that social media can become far more than a platform for entertainment it can also be a powerful tool for sharing meaningful work, connecting with people, and building an entirely new path to success outside conventional gatekeepers.
The stories behind his subway portraits and encounters with strangers reinforce one of the book's central themes: every person has a story worth seeing and telling. That human-centered perspective gives the memoir warmth and emotional depth while reminding readers that genuine connection often begins with curiosity and empathy.
What makes Work in Progress especially compelling is that it speaks to a wide audience. Artists, entrepreneurs, creators, students, and anyone pursuing an unconventional dream will recognize the challenges of self-belief, perseverance, and finding opportunity where others see obstacles.
Ultimately, this is more than the story of a successful artist it is a powerful reminder that our circumstances do not define our future. Through remarkable talent, relentless determination, and a willingness to embrace new possibilities, Devon Rodriguez has created an inspiring portrait not only of himself but of what is possible when passion meets perseverance.
One of the book's greatest strengths is its emotional honesty. Rodriguez doesn't present success as something that happened overnight or through luck alone. Instead, he shares how art became both an escape and a lifeline during a childhood marked by adversity, illustrating the remarkable role creativity can play in healing, self-expression, and personal growth.
I particularly appreciated the way the memoir captures the intersection of traditional artistic skill and modern digital culture. Rodriguez demonstrates that social media can become far more than a platform for entertainment it can also be a powerful tool for sharing meaningful work, connecting with people, and building an entirely new path to success outside conventional gatekeepers.
The stories behind his subway portraits and encounters with strangers reinforce one of the book's central themes: every person has a story worth seeing and telling. That human-centered perspective gives the memoir warmth and emotional depth while reminding readers that genuine connection often begins with curiosity and empathy.
What makes Work in Progress especially compelling is that it speaks to a wide audience. Artists, entrepreneurs, creators, students, and anyone pursuing an unconventional dream will recognize the challenges of self-belief, perseverance, and finding opportunity where others see obstacles.
Ultimately, this is more than the story of a successful artist it is a powerful reminder that our circumstances do not define our future. Through remarkable talent, relentless determination, and a willingness to embrace new possibilities, Devon Rodriguez has created an inspiring portrait not only of himself but of what is possible when passion meets perseverance.
October 8, 2026
If you want a contemporary American rags to riches story this is your book! Rodriguez grew up in the poorest communities in the Bronx in an abusive household, chasing an ethereal father whom he idolized through his tattoos and within system that despite its gargantuan cultural pull to perpetuate the ills of society, truly bucked the system and stayed true to his inner voice. A voice of peace, love, joy, and happiness through the medium of art. His humility and gratitude for not only the positive but a stoic lens of how his struggles for survival shaped him, is for me the most enamoring quality Rodriguez has. And bonus, it comes through his art and his social media work. He is naturally good to the core. What he has built is on the truth that humanity is good and that no matter the circumstances one can be great, if given the chance and effort and focus… and an amazing Abuela.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Thank you to Penguin Random House for the gifted copy.
There’s something about the writing of Work In Progress that just didn’t quite work for me. While Devin Rodriguez is clearly a talented and resilient artist, with a wide social media reach, much of the memoir is told in a voice that is distinctly distant—on the verge of being dissociative. I find that the most compelling memoirs not only narrate the personal histories and experiences of the author, they also offer insightful connections and introspection that extend beyond their personal lived experiences to the world around them. It’s challenging to develop any sort of emotional reaction other than shock at how much physical and emotional trauma is being recounted in Work In Progress. Good memoirs act in conversation with you as a reader. In this instance, it’s a one-way street. I am being spoken at rather than spoken to. It’s a stream of life experiences from childhood into adulthood and ending with social media stardom that is recounted at a distance, making it challenging to find any emotion behind the author’s memories crowding the page.
There’s no question that Devon Rodriguez‘s art, and his success, is a direct product of his personal resilience and determination, as well as the community of artists and extended family who helped support him through very trying times of his life. And while those moments of hope tend to be overshadowed by memories of physical abuse and difficult socioeconomic circumstances, much of this memoir is very repetitive. The pacing is too slow. There are a lot of descriptions of abuse of drug usage, mental illness, deep poverty, which are all experiences that demonstrate very serious obstacles to any person finding success. I also want to note that there is a substantial amount of unchecked homophobia and toxic masculinity conveyed through memories of the abuse Devon endured as a young man. Unfortunately, this is never interrogated, which I think is an unfortunate and missed opportunity on the authors part.
There’s something about the writing of Work In Progress that just didn’t quite work for me. While Devin Rodriguez is clearly a talented and resilient artist, with a wide social media reach, much of the memoir is told in a voice that is distinctly distant—on the verge of being dissociative. I find that the most compelling memoirs not only narrate the personal histories and experiences of the author, they also offer insightful connections and introspection that extend beyond their personal lived experiences to the world around them. It’s challenging to develop any sort of emotional reaction other than shock at how much physical and emotional trauma is being recounted in Work In Progress. Good memoirs act in conversation with you as a reader. In this instance, it’s a one-way street. I am being spoken at rather than spoken to. It’s a stream of life experiences from childhood into adulthood and ending with social media stardom that is recounted at a distance, making it challenging to find any emotion behind the author’s memories crowding the page.
There’s no question that Devon Rodriguez‘s art, and his success, is a direct product of his personal resilience and determination, as well as the community of artists and extended family who helped support him through very trying times of his life. And while those moments of hope tend to be overshadowed by memories of physical abuse and difficult socioeconomic circumstances, much of this memoir is very repetitive. The pacing is too slow. There are a lot of descriptions of abuse of drug usage, mental illness, deep poverty, which are all experiences that demonstrate very serious obstacles to any person finding success. I also want to note that there is a substantial amount of unchecked homophobia and toxic masculinity conveyed through memories of the abuse Devon endured as a young man. Unfortunately, this is never interrogated, which I think is an unfortunate and missed opportunity on the authors part.
November 11, 2026
Raw, Amazing and inspiring story. Devon Rodriguez is a phenomenal artist and kind human being. Work in progress is one of my favorite memoirs of 2026. Rodriguez's powerful story about resilience and rising above adversity. The stories behind his artwork. Overcoming a difficult childhood in the Bronx.
November 10, 2026
Devon’s story was inspiring. He seems like a really sweet, genuine man despite all of the hard circumstances in which he grew up. I especially loved how his abuela read her own lines in the audiobook recording. Not the world’s best writing but memoirs rarely are.
October 12, 2026
Truly a heartbreaking story that grows into the true meaning of resiliency… Devon, your life is meant to be shared with others, thank you!
November 2, 2026
Oh my! This was such an amazing and engrossing read! It was heart-wrenching and heartfelt. Very difficult to read about your upbringing and growing up in an extremely abusive and neglectful environment. But yet you kept going, your drive is incredible and your talent, simply without words. A few key people in your life who believed in you and your art and talent saved you. I have been following you on social media for a few years now and I am always amazed at your talent. I’ve also seen how you have grown to who you are today, an amazing artist who has a bright future ahead of you. I am so proud of you, I cannot say enough great things about you. I’m so glad you wrote the memoir to know you better, but I am grateful that you shared your life so openly, especially with such sensitive subjects.
November 2, 2026
I picked up this gem at a local library. I read Devon Rodriguez's memoir in two days. This is a powerful story about resilience and rising above adversity. Although Devon Rodriguez is a young twenty-something, he is an old soul who grew up fast in a volatile home in the South Bronx. Art was not only his outlet, but art was life for Rodriguez. His memoir is authentic and heartfelt. Despite the efforts of his toxic parents, Rodriguez didn't lose his humanity and sensitivity to the world. His precious Abuela saved him, and eventually, he saved himself. I highly recommend this book!
October 2, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️ (4.5/5)
I’ve been following Devon Rodriguez for years, long before Work in Progress was announced, so I went into this memoir already a fan. I first discovered him through his subway portraits, watching him sketch strangers and surprise them with their drawings. I would constantly send his videos to my sister, who is an artist herself, and over the years I’ve watched his career grow from those subway sketches to traveling the world, drawing celebrities, and reaching millions of people through his art.
I've heard about bits and pieces of Devon’s difficult childhood, but I had no idea just how much he had endured. Growing up in the South Bronx surrounded by poverty, drugs, abuse, and instability, art became his escape and eventually his path toward an entirely different life. His relationship with his grandmother was especially touching. She provided so much of the love and stability he needed, and throughout his life, there seemed to be people who entered at pivotal moments to encourage his talent and help guide him forward.
There were several moments when I found myself getting teary-eyed. Having followed Devon for so long, it was incredibly emotional to finally understand the story behind the person I’d been watching all these years. I've always been drawn to the positive energy he seems to bring to his work and his interactions with others, and knowing what he experienced growing up gave me an entirely different appreciation for where he is today. His success feels incredibly well deserved.
The writing itself isn't necessarily the most polished or literary, but I actually appreciated how conversational and raw it felt. I especially enjoyed the moments when conversations with his grandmother and other family members shifted naturally into Spanish, followed by the English translation. Those details made the story feel even more personal and authentic.
My one hesitation was that there were times when I felt Devon portrayed himself in an almost entirely positive light. He is incredibly open about the mistakes, dysfunction, and painful choices of the people around him, but there seemed to be less reflection on his own mistakes or shortcomings. Of course, maybe that genuinely was his experience, but I would have appreciated seeing a little more of that imperfect side of him. I think that additional vulnerability would have added another layer to an already very personal memoir.
Still, Work in Progress is an emotional and inspiring story about resilience, determination, the people who believe in us, and the role art can play in changing the trajectory of a life. And having watched Devon's journey for years, finally learning what came before the success made this memoir particularly meaningful to me.
Thank you to One World, an imprint of Random House, and NetGalley for providing me with an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
I’ve been following Devon Rodriguez for years, long before Work in Progress was announced, so I went into this memoir already a fan. I first discovered him through his subway portraits, watching him sketch strangers and surprise them with their drawings. I would constantly send his videos to my sister, who is an artist herself, and over the years I’ve watched his career grow from those subway sketches to traveling the world, drawing celebrities, and reaching millions of people through his art.
I've heard about bits and pieces of Devon’s difficult childhood, but I had no idea just how much he had endured. Growing up in the South Bronx surrounded by poverty, drugs, abuse, and instability, art became his escape and eventually his path toward an entirely different life. His relationship with his grandmother was especially touching. She provided so much of the love and stability he needed, and throughout his life, there seemed to be people who entered at pivotal moments to encourage his talent and help guide him forward.
There were several moments when I found myself getting teary-eyed. Having followed Devon for so long, it was incredibly emotional to finally understand the story behind the person I’d been watching all these years. I've always been drawn to the positive energy he seems to bring to his work and his interactions with others, and knowing what he experienced growing up gave me an entirely different appreciation for where he is today. His success feels incredibly well deserved.
The writing itself isn't necessarily the most polished or literary, but I actually appreciated how conversational and raw it felt. I especially enjoyed the moments when conversations with his grandmother and other family members shifted naturally into Spanish, followed by the English translation. Those details made the story feel even more personal and authentic.
My one hesitation was that there were times when I felt Devon portrayed himself in an almost entirely positive light. He is incredibly open about the mistakes, dysfunction, and painful choices of the people around him, but there seemed to be less reflection on his own mistakes or shortcomings. Of course, maybe that genuinely was his experience, but I would have appreciated seeing a little more of that imperfect side of him. I think that additional vulnerability would have added another layer to an already very personal memoir.
Still, Work in Progress is an emotional and inspiring story about resilience, determination, the people who believe in us, and the role art can play in changing the trajectory of a life. And having watched Devon's journey for years, finally learning what came before the success made this memoir particularly meaningful to me.
Thank you to One World, an imprint of Random House, and NetGalley for providing me with an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
November 3, 2026
I could not put this book down ! As someone who grew up in the South Bronx so many things were relatable. I laughed, cried, so many things resonated within my soul. It was brutally honest, a journey that took you up and down rollercoasters. If you want something that has Sazon, Adobo and a little Pique come get this book ! Devon can’t wait for the next one !!!
October 27, 2026
An inspiring, artist, man, and human. I loved this book and his first hand account of his personal WIP. I especially enjoyed learning about all the people who helped him along the way, especially the teachers 🥰
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was unfamiliar with Devon Rodriguez and his artwork before reading this memoir, but now I'm a fan. It was truly one of the most inspirational memoirs I have ever read.
As a child, Devon survived years of abuse and neglect from both his parents, but what saved him was his love for drawing, a zeal to change his life using his art, and the unconditional love of his abuela.
He tells his story in such a way, like his art, that the reader is drawn (no pun intended) into his world; we experience how he sees life and translates those perceptions into his work. He is a fascinating person and extremely talented.
Anyone who enjoys memoirs and the human perspective will love this book. His fans will also appreciate learning how he went from being an underprivileged kid in the Bronx to someone whose artistic gifts positively affect everyone who encounters them.
I was unfamiliar with Devon Rodriguez and his artwork before reading this memoir, but now I'm a fan. It was truly one of the most inspirational memoirs I have ever read.
As a child, Devon survived years of abuse and neglect from both his parents, but what saved him was his love for drawing, a zeal to change his life using his art, and the unconditional love of his abuela.
He tells his story in such a way, like his art, that the reader is drawn (no pun intended) into his world; we experience how he sees life and translates those perceptions into his work. He is a fascinating person and extremely talented.
Anyone who enjoys memoirs and the human perspective will love this book. His fans will also appreciate learning how he went from being an underprivileged kid in the Bronx to someone whose artistic gifts positively affect everyone who encounters them.
November 2, 2026
Watching Devon Rodriguez draw strangers while riding subways in New York City on YouTube is an interesting experience because he tells the story of people's lives through his portraits. This memoir is an examination of his own life through story, and it is a fascinating one since he was raised in an abusive and impoverished home with his mother before tracking down his father and learning about his life as a talented tattoo artist. Early in the book, Rodriguez wrote:
Art has always been romanticized: however, it's rarely respected as a career. But the image I held of my father gave me a different definition...To me, being an artist was being a professional, someone who was both skilled and responsible.
Besides having art as a career as a life goal, Devon described the importance of school in his life for emotional and artistic support, guidance and mentorship in contrast to his home life:
I don't know what I would have done without my school...when those doors opened in the morning and I stepped inside, my shoulders would drop, my muscles release. I felt protected, at ease. It was a place I could play and learn and just be a kid. It felt like the chaos at home wouldn't follow me through the threshold.
Pushing through those doors was like stepping into daylight. The floors were clean. The lights were bright. Teachers stood at the front of the classroom with lesson plans and coffee mugs, and they spoke in normal, inside voices. They work up early, got dressed, and showed up for their job. They had some structure. They spoke to us like we mattered. No one was yelling. There were rules, bells, schedules, things I could predict-the exact opposite of home, where my mom might wake me and my siblings up at four A.M. to clean the house, just because she felt like it...
At school and at home, drawing was the thing that eased my anxiety, that gave me a sense of agency and joy...As early as kindergarten, my teacher...told me I was going to be a great artist. It meant a lot to me to have a teacher who believed in me like that at such a young age.
As a teenager, Devon Rodriguez attempted to gain entrance to the High School of Art and Design, but instead had to attend Samuel Gompers High School. Luckily, he soon met and connected with Mr. Harper, an art teacher who served as an inspiration and mentor to the budding young artist. Reading his syllabus for "Thirteen Lessons for Life and Art" was exciting for Rodriguez, and for the reader since it showed the structure, background and inspiration for creating art that he needed. Their connection helped the development of a strong art portfolio with watercolour, charcoal, portraits and landscapes so that Rodriguez could try and re-apply to the High School of Art and Design. As he described, "fortunately, I'd found a teacher who was as committed to my success as I was". Ultimately, when Mr. Harper took the class on the subway since it was the best place to practice portraiture by capturing proportion and features, Rodriguez realized that it was his passion that eventually helped form his eventual career drawing strangers on the subway while filming the process, then later the reaction as he gave them their portrait.
Some parts of this memoir were difficult to read and to process. Devon Rodriguez' mother was excessively manipulative and deceptive in his story after he told social services about her abusive behavior towards he and his siblings, and she even forced the children to partake in the deception. The physical abuse towards the children was vivid and violent, and unimaginable. After his younger sister Jasmine was hit and showed signs of violence before an ACS visit, the other children were coached to describe her as sleeping in her room so that she could be hidden. Later in the book the author revealed a particularly shocking revelation about this deception that made it hard to believe.
Another section of the book described the darkness of an incident with Rodriguez' father that left me with nightmares for a week when Devon arrived at his father's house after buying pizza to witness a horrific tragedy. Despite fathering many children and having relationships with multiple women, the sadness of his father was hidden by the brilliance of his artistry while creating tattoos.
Thankfully, the positivity and kindness of Devon Rodriguez' abuela, or grandmother, was the light in his family life. Her presence was a contrast to the darkness of his mother, and even his father, whom he visited to learn about how to tattoo. As he writes:
I always felt safe in my grandma's house. Everything in her home was rooted in love and genuine intention. My grandma was about doing the right thing, even when no one was watching, even when it cost her something. You would often find her sitting quietly with her Bible open.
The relationships that Devon Rodriguez formed with other artists and creative people like actors were also interesting. Reading about other artists like John Ahearn and his twin brother, Amy Sherald, and actress Jennifer Coolidge inspired me as a reader to research their creations and artwork. As Devon Rodriguez became more celebrated as a successful artist, he also emphasized the importance of celebrating others.
The only criticism that I had of this memoir was its lack of consistency in translating the Spanish phrases peppered throughout the text. While it is admirable that Devon Rodriguez celebrated his Latino roots by including Spanish in the book, I wish that he could help non-Spanish speakers to understand the importance of the excerpts by translating them.
Art has always been romanticized: however, it's rarely respected as a career. But the image I held of my father gave me a different definition...To me, being an artist was being a professional, someone who was both skilled and responsible.
Besides having art as a career as a life goal, Devon described the importance of school in his life for emotional and artistic support, guidance and mentorship in contrast to his home life:
I don't know what I would have done without my school...when those doors opened in the morning and I stepped inside, my shoulders would drop, my muscles release. I felt protected, at ease. It was a place I could play and learn and just be a kid. It felt like the chaos at home wouldn't follow me through the threshold.
Pushing through those doors was like stepping into daylight. The floors were clean. The lights were bright. Teachers stood at the front of the classroom with lesson plans and coffee mugs, and they spoke in normal, inside voices. They work up early, got dressed, and showed up for their job. They had some structure. They spoke to us like we mattered. No one was yelling. There were rules, bells, schedules, things I could predict-the exact opposite of home, where my mom might wake me and my siblings up at four A.M. to clean the house, just because she felt like it...
At school and at home, drawing was the thing that eased my anxiety, that gave me a sense of agency and joy...As early as kindergarten, my teacher...told me I was going to be a great artist. It meant a lot to me to have a teacher who believed in me like that at such a young age.
As a teenager, Devon Rodriguez attempted to gain entrance to the High School of Art and Design, but instead had to attend Samuel Gompers High School. Luckily, he soon met and connected with Mr. Harper, an art teacher who served as an inspiration and mentor to the budding young artist. Reading his syllabus for "Thirteen Lessons for Life and Art" was exciting for Rodriguez, and for the reader since it showed the structure, background and inspiration for creating art that he needed. Their connection helped the development of a strong art portfolio with watercolour, charcoal, portraits and landscapes so that Rodriguez could try and re-apply to the High School of Art and Design. As he described, "fortunately, I'd found a teacher who was as committed to my success as I was". Ultimately, when Mr. Harper took the class on the subway since it was the best place to practice portraiture by capturing proportion and features, Rodriguez realized that it was his passion that eventually helped form his eventual career drawing strangers on the subway while filming the process, then later the reaction as he gave them their portrait.
Some parts of this memoir were difficult to read and to process. Devon Rodriguez' mother was excessively manipulative and deceptive in his story after he told social services about her abusive behavior towards he and his siblings, and she even forced the children to partake in the deception. The physical abuse towards the children was vivid and violent, and unimaginable. After his younger sister Jasmine was hit and showed signs of violence before an ACS visit, the other children were coached to describe her as sleeping in her room so that she could be hidden. Later in the book the author revealed a particularly shocking revelation about this deception that made it hard to believe.
Another section of the book described the darkness of an incident with Rodriguez' father that left me with nightmares for a week when Devon arrived at his father's house after buying pizza to witness a horrific tragedy. Despite fathering many children and having relationships with multiple women, the sadness of his father was hidden by the brilliance of his artistry while creating tattoos.
Thankfully, the positivity and kindness of Devon Rodriguez' abuela, or grandmother, was the light in his family life. Her presence was a contrast to the darkness of his mother, and even his father, whom he visited to learn about how to tattoo. As he writes:
I always felt safe in my grandma's house. Everything in her home was rooted in love and genuine intention. My grandma was about doing the right thing, even when no one was watching, even when it cost her something. You would often find her sitting quietly with her Bible open.
The relationships that Devon Rodriguez formed with other artists and creative people like actors were also interesting. Reading about other artists like John Ahearn and his twin brother, Amy Sherald, and actress Jennifer Coolidge inspired me as a reader to research their creations and artwork. As Devon Rodriguez became more celebrated as a successful artist, he also emphasized the importance of celebrating others.
The only criticism that I had of this memoir was its lack of consistency in translating the Spanish phrases peppered throughout the text. While it is admirable that Devon Rodriguez celebrated his Latino roots by including Spanish in the book, I wish that he could help non-Spanish speakers to understand the importance of the excerpts by translating them.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I've been following Devon (pronounced De-Vaughn) Rodriguez on Instagram for quite a while, so when I saw he had written a memoir, I requested it on NetGalley immediately. I was so excited to read it that I also suggested my local library purchase it, and I'm happy to say they did.
If you only know Devon from his incredible subway portraits, this book gives you the story behind the artist. He comes across exactly as he does online: kind, humble, and genuinely grateful. At times, it was heartbreaking to read about everything he endured growing up, but what stood out most was his determination to build a different future for himself.
His grandmother's unwavering love, constant prayers, and belief in him were such a powerful part of his story. Along with the encouragement of mentors and the opportunities that came when people recognized his talent, those moments helped shape the person and artist he became.
This memoir is honest, inspiring, and a reminder that talent can open doors, but perseverance, hard work, and having even one person believe in you can truly change the course of a life. It left me with an even greater appreciation for both the artist and the person behind the art.
Here's hoping he makes the NYT Best Sellers List!
Thank you to NetGalley & Random House | One World for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
#WorkInProgress #NetGalley
If you only know Devon from his incredible subway portraits, this book gives you the story behind the artist. He comes across exactly as he does online: kind, humble, and genuinely grateful. At times, it was heartbreaking to read about everything he endured growing up, but what stood out most was his determination to build a different future for himself.
His grandmother's unwavering love, constant prayers, and belief in him were such a powerful part of his story. Along with the encouragement of mentors and the opportunities that came when people recognized his talent, those moments helped shape the person and artist he became.
This memoir is honest, inspiring, and a reminder that talent can open doors, but perseverance, hard work, and having even one person believe in you can truly change the course of a life. It left me with an even greater appreciation for both the artist and the person behind the art.
Here's hoping he makes the NYT Best Sellers List!
Thank you to NetGalley & Random House | One World for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
#WorkInProgress #NetGalley
June 27, 2026
Work in progress completely exceeded and surpassed any expectations I had. I knew of Devon Rodriguez’s incredible artwork and viral subway portraits, what I did not know was how deeply personal, honest, and inspiring his story would be.
This memoir shows something more than just a success story. It shows the resilience exhibited by someone just trying to find purpose when life never stopped trying to knock them down, while also continuing to choose to create beauty even after experiencing such pain. There were so many memorable moments in this memoir, I truly appreciate just how vulnerable Devon is about his childhood, his struggles, and the determination it took to carry him through.
I loved how authentic his story is, it really felt like sitting across from someone who was finally telling you the story behind the art. You get a sense of his passion to truly know and understand the people around him, it was a beautiful reminder that everyone has a story worth hearing.
Whether you’ve followed Devon’s journey online or are discovering him for the first time, this memoir is absolutely worth reading. This was one of the most memorable and inspiring memoirs I’ve ever read, I highly recommend.
This memoir shows something more than just a success story. It shows the resilience exhibited by someone just trying to find purpose when life never stopped trying to knock them down, while also continuing to choose to create beauty even after experiencing such pain. There were so many memorable moments in this memoir, I truly appreciate just how vulnerable Devon is about his childhood, his struggles, and the determination it took to carry him through.
I loved how authentic his story is, it really felt like sitting across from someone who was finally telling you the story behind the art. You get a sense of his passion to truly know and understand the people around him, it was a beautiful reminder that everyone has a story worth hearing.
Whether you’ve followed Devon’s journey online or are discovering him for the first time, this memoir is absolutely worth reading. This was one of the most memorable and inspiring memoirs I’ve ever read, I highly recommend.
October 9, 2026
Whether or not you can relate to Rodriguez’s abusive childhood, it is impossible to overstate the resilience of someone who has endured so much and still managed to build something meaningful out of his life. Given the pain of his past, I couldn’t blame him if he had become withdrawn and bitter. Instead of allowing poverty and abuse to define him, he found a way forward.
How?
Like a true artist, he started with a blank canvas and used it to create something uniquely his own and beautiful.
And like other stories of inspiration, his journey was not one he made alone. His school and, especially, his grandmother provided the stability, love, and holding environment he needed to discover himself and find the strength to keep pursuing his dream. His story showed me that even when life begins in hopelessly gray circumstances, the right support and determination can help create something bursting with color.
Through his art, Rodriguez transformed his painful experiences into something positive, connecting with millions of people and bringing them moments of joy through his videos and artwork.
How?
Like a true artist, he started with a blank canvas and used it to create something uniquely his own and beautiful.
And like other stories of inspiration, his journey was not one he made alone. His school and, especially, his grandmother provided the stability, love, and holding environment he needed to discover himself and find the strength to keep pursuing his dream. His story showed me that even when life begins in hopelessly gray circumstances, the right support and determination can help create something bursting with color.
Through his art, Rodriguez transformed his painful experiences into something positive, connecting with millions of people and bringing them moments of joy through his videos and artwork.
October 9, 2026
I love reading memoirs. It is not often that I find a memoir where I can connect with the narrator. Devon’s memoir is raw and genuine. His growth as a person and his journey is evident on the pages of the book.
His losses; his hopes and dreams. He bares them all. His memoir was painful at times, as a teacher it is a reminder of the realities some students face. His memoir was also hopeful. Devon’s memoir is a reminder to invest in yourself, to believe in yourself.
I’ll also be honest and confess that I made my way backwards to him. I bought the ticket to his book tour in my city before I read the memoir. And I read the memoir before I learned of his work. (I don’t want TikTok 😩). In any case, I’ve gone down the rabbit hole of his work and I am very excited to see him talk about his memoir.
One quote that I will take with me is “coincidences are the world telling you you’re on the right path.”
I do believe his book found me at the right time in my life: and I always take something from the memoirs I read, his is no exception.
His losses; his hopes and dreams. He bares them all. His memoir was painful at times, as a teacher it is a reminder of the realities some students face. His memoir was also hopeful. Devon’s memoir is a reminder to invest in yourself, to believe in yourself.
I’ll also be honest and confess that I made my way backwards to him. I bought the ticket to his book tour in my city before I read the memoir. And I read the memoir before I learned of his work. (I don’t want TikTok 😩). In any case, I’ve gone down the rabbit hole of his work and I am very excited to see him talk about his memoir.
One quote that I will take with me is “coincidences are the world telling you you’re on the right path.”
I do believe his book found me at the right time in my life: and I always take something from the memoirs I read, his is no exception.
November 9, 2026
Excellent memoir. The author is astonishingly insightful about his childhood, and all he/his siblings went through. His upbringing did not harden him or push him into a life of drug dealing and gangster hood. He knew from the beginning that he wanted to be an artist. And despite the many strikes against him, including an absentee father & a violently abusive drug using crazy mother, It is amazing that he did not die at her hands from the physical abuse or the emotional abuse or starvation. He had that inner something, that it; that motivated him. And he tells his story with powerful words he explains his thought process both of creating art and setting goals and moving up, both out of poverty and danger. His book is compelling. This book is compelling & riveting. I did not want to put it down. I immediately went to his YouTube channel to watch the different art mediums that he described. He seems to be a good person, and impressive person, and I’m glad I came to know him through this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 10, 2026
From growing up the South Bronx to being the most followed artist on earth, Devon Rodriguez has made his mark on culture. He’s a talented artist who has given everything to his craft. Despite devastating challenges, he holds onto hope that his art will propel him toward success.
That being said, my ultimate wish for anyone writing a memoir is to do it when you have gone through tremendous healing and inner work.
(And no, I do not consider a meteoric rise to fame as indication of inner work),
Once he begins building fame, the book shifts. Whole chapters are dedicated to explaining the TikTok FYP and why you should have your email address listed in your bio. He begins to brag about how much money he makes from 20-second videos. From insightful conversations with others, his takeaway is that it will “go so viral.”
I just wish he had more time to let everything in his life permeate before taking this opportunity.
.
TW:
Child abuse
Homophobia
Domestic Violence
Death/Grief
Poverty
That being said, my ultimate wish for anyone writing a memoir is to do it when you have gone through tremendous healing and inner work.
(And no, I do not consider a meteoric rise to fame as indication of inner work),
Once he begins building fame, the book shifts. Whole chapters are dedicated to explaining the TikTok FYP and why you should have your email address listed in your bio. He begins to brag about how much money he makes from 20-second videos. From insightful conversations with others, his takeaway is that it will “go so viral.”
I just wish he had more time to let everything in his life permeate before taking this opportunity.
.
TW:
Child abuse
Homophobia
Domestic Violence
Death/Grief
Poverty
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was a very enjoyable memoir. Walking you through the journey of childhood to adulthood and Devon’s path to finding himself and his purpose in art. He is an incredible storyteller. It is easy to feel the emotions as he walks you through the struggles of his family and childhood. His experience of feeling different and just wanting to draw instead of fighting. I feel like I learned so much about art as he discussed how he was mentored and grew his art skills through his Highschool years. Every step was needed to complete the journey. Every loss, every new friend, each new skill. It was fascinating to hear of his dedication to his craft, the hours of work put into growing social media accounts and how he developed different ideas and ads once he started getting contacted by brands. Overall a very gripping and enjoyable book!
October 7, 2026
Devon, Thank you so much! Never before has one VISUAL artist tackled the importance of fighting for what is right and provided such an amazing voice. Standing up against male toxicity, homophobia, xenophobia all while encouraging one to smile is bringing more than Oprah vibes..... we are talking Maya Angelou. Memoirs are the most amazing tool to bring connection. I forgot to tell you that when I was in grad school i wrote a "dissertation" about using Memoirs to teach psychiatric nursing students some reality. I have read thousands of memoir..... WE NEED TO HEAR YOUR VOICE...........so grateful for sharing
also i thinkkevein would really like teamlab planets but albert might like the moro one better. Let's all get jobs with lady gaga at FamilyMart. Love you to Japan And back- Cat B. ARNP, PMHNP-BC
also i thinkkevein would really like teamlab planets but albert might like the moro one better. Let's all get jobs with lady gaga at FamilyMart. Love you to Japan And back- Cat B. ARNP, PMHNP-BC
October 13, 2026
I followed Devon Rodriguez on social media with my boys since the pandemic, and after hearing him speak at Powell’s with Reid, I was already charmed by his authenticity and humility. Work in Progress gave me a much deeper appreciation for the person behind the smile.
I had no idea how much abuse, neglect, poverty, and trauma he endured, nor did I fully appreciate the extraordinary hustle, strategy, and singular focus behind his success. His commitment to developing his craft is as impressive as his talent.
A story about resilience, determination, and the power of having someone in your corner. Thank the stars for his Abuela! Having just one person believe in you and advocate for you can make all the difference. A reminder that both our circumstances and our choices shape our lives.
I had no idea how much abuse, neglect, poverty, and trauma he endured, nor did I fully appreciate the extraordinary hustle, strategy, and singular focus behind his success. His commitment to developing his craft is as impressive as his talent.
A story about resilience, determination, and the power of having someone in your corner. Thank the stars for his Abuela! Having just one person believe in you and advocate for you can make all the difference. A reminder that both our circumstances and our choices shape our lives.
September 30, 2026
I've followed this young artist for a few years, marveling at the talent he's shaped with perseverance and practise. Rodriguez writes with honesty and grit about his difficult beginnings and the challenges of his neighborhoods.
He became known for the portraits he gifted people on the streets of New York but has picked up sketching and landscapes in his travels. I'm fascinated by the joyful acceptance he offers those who are marginalized or have chosen the fringes of society. Though he's been recognized in high societal circles, he remains humble and open to new things.
For everyone who thinks their background determines their future, please read this engaging story.
He became known for the portraits he gifted people on the streets of New York but has picked up sketching and landscapes in his travels. I'm fascinated by the joyful acceptance he offers those who are marginalized or have chosen the fringes of society. Though he's been recognized in high societal circles, he remains humble and open to new things.
For everyone who thinks their background determines their future, please read this engaging story.
October 4, 2026
THIS BOOK WAS AMAZING!!! As someone who came from an abusive childhood I could relate to so much of this book. It touched my heart and inspired me. Sometimes abuse can push you to work harder and to do better.
Very well written, absolutely captivated me, made me laugh and cry and it had me cheering you on in every way. But most of all it made me proud to be a survivor & overcomer!!! This may sound strange, but after reading your book I felt like you were a friend.
Thank you Devon for sharing your story and for touching our hearts. I wish you a lifetime of success, fulfillment and happiness!!!!
Very well written, absolutely captivated me, made me laugh and cry and it had me cheering you on in every way. But most of all it made me proud to be a survivor & overcomer!!! This may sound strange, but after reading your book I felt like you were a friend.
Thank you Devon for sharing your story and for touching our hearts. I wish you a lifetime of success, fulfillment and happiness!!!!
October 7, 2026
This is an unbelievably inspiring book. Devon tells the story of his difficult upbringing, but with honesty, simplicity, and a lightness that makes the difficulty he dealt with easier to read about. Then he details what he did to grow his artistic skill, learn to develop the skill of creating content, get out of the South Bronx, and become a really excellent art entrepreneur. If you want to do anything challenging or difficult in your life, this story of focus, intentional action, forgiveness, and following your passion will definitely inspire you.
October 10, 2026
Devon tells a complex and deeply inspiring story in such a beautifully moving way. I could not put the book down. Even in his descriptions of his darkest and most difficult times his words radiate love, hope, and innocence. It has been such a privilege to pull back the curtain on his life and feel truly proud of him…he writes like he is speaking to you as a friend. You feel so connected to his story the same way you feel connected to his art and storytelling. I am so excited to see what he does next.
October 22, 2026
AUDIOBOOK: Really loved this book. Heartbreaking story of physical and verbal abuse. What an inspiration Devon Rodriguez is, he’s incredibly successful and is so driven despite his circumstances. His mother was and is a piece of crap, and his father wasn’t much better. The only constants in his life were his dearest Abuela, his aunts and the community of teachers and artists/friends. I definitely can’t wait to buy the physical book. You’ve absolutely seen this artist on TikTok with his subway portraits and incredibly talented kid so happy for his success!!! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!!!
September 30, 2026
As a native from the Bronx I am very proud to see one of our own succeed. His memoir is a wonderful and moving . I enjoyed it very much Everyone should read. Young artists can see that it doesn’t matter where you come from, just keep creating
Look him up on instagram you will see his creations
Look him up on instagram you will see his creations
October 5, 2026
Raw, heartbreaking, inspiring, and exhilarating. All the emotions! I first saw Devon Rodriguez on Instagram, painting the people whom no one else was paying attention to—or the ones others intentionally avoided looking at on the New York subways. It was pure magic. I am so happy to get a glimpse into this talented young artist’s life and his deep passion for art.
October 9, 2026
It was a joy to read about Devon's much deserved meteoric rise in the art world. I, myself have two of his wonderful prints.
I was deeply saddened to learn of the abuse he suffered at the hands of his Mother. But, l am so glad to hear of his strength, resilience and drive to survive and thrive. Long may he continue producing his spectacular art.
I was deeply saddened to learn of the abuse he suffered at the hands of his Mother. But, l am so glad to hear of his strength, resilience and drive to survive and thrive. Long may he continue producing his spectacular art.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews