WOW Dozen: Picturebook Biographies of Musicians
In a recent study that examined picturebook biographies of musicians, I was interested in what they offered young readers about the value of music in the lives of these individuals. Shared in a recently submitted article, I discovered over 40 biographies that spanned across historical eras, forms of music, ages of musicians and how music impacted individuals which often was the focus of the picturebook. Books were read and reread revealing themes of offering hope and comfort, creating identity, sharing tradition, giving voice to marginalized people and sharing examples of determination, persistence and strength. Below, are a dozen titles that reflect the challenges and successes of musicians in narratives that provide young readers with new insights to the significance of music in these lives and the potential influences in their own lives.
As an immigrant child from Venezuala, Teresa was invited to share her joy of music by playing piano for a grieving President Lincoln.
A child musician who became deaf by age 12, Evelyn became a famous percussionist by becoming sensitive to the vibrations she felt throughout her body.
Blind Willie, with homemade instruments, played in small Texas towns to survive before becoming known through a recording & eventually being included on the Golden Record that was sent into space on Voyager I.
Billie, whose voice was known for blues & jazz, adapted a song by a Jewish immigrant that became a noted piece in her shows -- a song that speaks to racial injustice.
Disabled as a child from polio, Grammy award-winning violinist, Itzhak Perlman persisted in pursuing his passion as well as advocating for handicapped individuals.
In Paraguay a music teacher creates instruments for a poor community out of trash, giving dignity & hope as the orchestra is recognized internationally.
Known as the "queen of soul," Aretha's life of music is intertwined with her voice of advocacy for justice & equity.
From the cotton fields of Mississippi, Muddy Waters took his music to the city & became known internationally for his unique Delta blues sound that has become part of American music history.
Known for his development of the electric guitar, Les Paul's determination & ingenuity regarding sound reveals his inventive nature.
Santana's journey to find personal joy, healing & his place in the music world is described.
A young Sioux girl leaves the reservation to attend school & becomes an advocate for Native American rights as well as a famous musician, writing the first Native American Opera.
Having to leave his friends in the US, Luca's spirits are lifted as his trumpet forms a bridge in his mind to the friends & home he left.
WOW Dozen features a list of 12 global books for children and adolescents around a theme, topic, issue or personal favorites. Each Dozen consists of ten newly-published titles with two older “must have” books. Please share or recommend additional books that fit the theme in the comments section or on social media using #WOWDozen. Use the printer icon in the upper left corner of this post to print or save this list as a PDF.
