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Book details

Blues Journey

Blues Journey

Published in
2003
4.10
on Goodreads (235)

Description

The blues aren't all sad. There's joy in the blues as well as heartbreak. Love discovered. Love lost. Love just around the corner. In this beautiful tribute to the poetry and art of the blues, renowned author Walter Dean Myers collaborates with his son, award-winning illustrator Christopher Myers, in a true masterpiece of picture book creation filled with struggle, grief, hope, joy, and love. Each original blues-style verse on a page calls out a response from the artist in striking tones of brown, black, white, and blue. Together, father and son weave an enchanting story of the creation of the blues through the experiences of African Americans from the end of slavery through the beginning of the civil rights movement. This book is for older children who love music and their parents who will appreciate the layered sophistication of the striking artwork and interplay between art and text. Includes an author's note explaining the birth and development of the blues, a timeline of blues milestones, and an explanatory glossary of terms in the blues. Together this content deepens the appreciation for the blues as a truly original art form. A Lee Bennett Hopkins Poetry Award Honor book An ALA Notable bookHorn Book Fanfare SelectionKirkus Reviews Editor's ChoiceNew York Public Library Book for the Teen AgeA Children's Book of the Year, Child Study Children's Book Committee at Bank Street College
Age
8-12
Text complexity
beginner
Length
48 pages

Why to read

  • Cultural Enrichment: 'Blues Journey' offers readers an immersive experience into the history and evolution of blues music, providing a rich cultural context that enhances understanding and appreciation of this influential genre.
  • Lyrical Storytelling: Walter Dean Myers masterfully uses poetic language and lyrical storytelling to capture the essence of the blues, making the book a compelling read for those interested in experiencing the emotive power of words.
  • Artistic Illustrations: The book is accompanied by striking illustrations by Christopher Myers, which complement the text and provide a visual narrative that deepens the reader's engagement with the themes and history of the blues.
  • Educational Value: 'Blues Journey' serves as an educational tool, introducing readers to significant historical events and figures that shaped the blues. It's an excellent resource for anyone looking to learn more about music history, African American culture, and the roots of modern music.