Top-rated books by Mary Hays Weik
the jazz man
Age: 8-12
Books like Mary Hays Weik’s
Award winning
R-E-S-P-E-C-T: Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul
Carole Boston Weatherford, Frank Morrison, 2020
48 pages
Why to read
Celebrates Aretha Franklin's impactful life and career.
Inspires children with strong, influential female role model.
Encourages respect and determination through engaging storytelling.
Beautiful illustrations complement powerful narrative.

R-E-S-P-E-C-T: Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul
Carole Boston Weatherford, Frank Morrison, 2020
Award winning
Mahalia Jackson: Walking with Kings and Queens
Nina Nolan, John Holyfield, 2015
32 pages
Why to read
Inspires with Mahalia Jackson's impactful life story.
Highlights historical figures and civil rights movement.
Encourages perseverance and following dreams.
Beautiful illustrations enhance storytelling.

Mahalia Jackson: Walking with Kings and Queens
Nina Nolan, John Holyfield, 2015
Award winning
Sidikiba's Kora Lesson
Ryan Skinner, 2008
64 pages
Why to read
Explores traditional West African music and culture.
Enhances appreciation for cultural diversity and history.
Encourages musical interest and creativity in children.
Strengthens intergenerational bonds through storytelling.

Sidikiba's Kora Lesson
Ryan Skinner, 2008
Award winning
Playing at the Border: A Story of Yo-Yo Ma
Joanna Ho, Teresa Martínez, Kevin Shen, HarperAudio, 2021
40 pages
Why to read
Inspires through Yo-Yo Ma’s musical journey.
Highlights cultural diversity and global understanding.
Encourages musical interest and artistic expression.
Supports resilience and pursuing passions.

Playing at the Border: A Story of Yo-Yo Ma
Joanna Ho, Teresa Martínez, Kevin Shen, HarperAudio, 2021
Award winning
A History of Music for Children
Mary Richards, David Schweitzer, Rose Blake, 2021
96 pages
Why to read
Chronicles key musical milestones in engaging narratives.
Illustrates music evolution, encouraging historical interest.
Supports understanding of cultural diversity through music.
Interactive content fosters family reading time.

A History of Music for Children
Mary Richards, David Schweitzer, Rose Blake, 2021
Double Bass Blues
Andrea J. Loney, Rudy Gutierrez, 2019
32 pages
Why to read
Showcases the perseverance and dedication of a young musician.
Highlights the emotional power of music in storytelling.
Encourages resilience amidst challenges and adversities.
Captures diverse cultural aspects through vibrant illustrations.

Double Bass Blues
Andrea J. Loney, Rudy Gutierrez, 2019
Award winning
Sweet Music in Harlem
Debbie A. Taylor, Frank Morrison, 2004
32 pages
Why to read
Vibrant celebration of Harlem's historical jazz scene.
Encourages appreciation for music and cultural heritage.
Inspires creativity and perseverance in young readers.
Supports understanding of community and teamwork.

Sweet Music in Harlem
Debbie A. Taylor, Frank Morrison, 2004
Taylor Swift: Country Music Star (Young and Famous)
Maggie Murphy, 2010
24 pages
Why to read
Inspires musical interest and artistic appreciation in children.
Highlights Taylor Swift's perseverance and hard work.
Encourages children to pursue their dreams confidently.
Perfect for young aspiring musicians and fans.
