Books like the jazz man
Award winning
Before John Was a Jazz Giant
Carole Boston Weatherford, Sean Qualls, 2022
32 pages
Why to read
Explores the early inspirations of jazz legend John Coltrane.
Illustrations and text evoke the soundscape of Coltrane's world.
Encourages musical exploration and appreciation in young readers.
Supports understanding of historical cultural influences in music.
Before John Was a Jazz Giant
Carole Boston Weatherford, Sean Qualls, 2022
Award winning
Jazz Age Josephine
Jonah Winter, Marjorie Priceman, jonah Wiinter, 2012
40 pages
Why to read
Vibrant story of Josephine Baker's inspiring life journey.
Celebrates cultural diversity and historical achievements.
Encourages resilience and pursuing dreams against odds.
Engaging illustrations complementing the empowering narrative.
Jazz Age Josephine
Jonah Winter, Marjorie Priceman, jonah Wiinter, 2012
Award winning
Trombone Shorty
Troy, Rews, Troy Andrews, Bryan Collier, Troy Shorty Andrews, Dion Graham, 2017
40 pages
Why to read
Inspires musical interest and artistic expression.
Showcases resilience and pursuit of dreams.
Based on a true, motivational story.
Culturally enriching, set in vibrant New Orleans.
Trombone Shorty
Troy, Rews, Troy Andrews, Bryan Collier, Troy Shorty Andrews, Dion Graham, 2017
Award winning
Muddy: The Story of Blues Legend Muddy Waters
Michael James Mahin, Evan Turk, 2018
48 pages
Why to read
Celebrates musical legend Muddy Waters' life and achievements.
Inspires children through perseverance and passion themes.
Illustrations vividly depict the era of the blues.
Encourages musical exploration and historical appreciation.
Muddy: The Story of Blues Legend Muddy Waters
Michael James Mahin, Evan Turk, 2018
Award winning
Libba: The Magnificent Musical Life of Elizabeth Cotten
Laura Veirs, Tatyana Fazlalizadeh, 2018
48 pages
Why to read
Inspiring story of perseverance and musical passion.
Cultural enrichment through historical artistic perspective.
Encourages musical interest and artistic expression in children.
Captivating illustrations enhance storytelling and engagement.
Libba: The Magnificent Musical Life of Elizabeth Cotten
Laura Veirs, Tatyana Fazlalizadeh, 2018
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
Jazz on a Saturday Night
Leo Dillon, Diane Dillon, 2007
40 pages
Why to read
Captures essence of Jazz music through vibrant illustrations.
Introduces children to cultural and musical diversity.
Stimulates auditory and rhythmic skills development.
Encourages family bonding over music appreciation.
Jazz on a Saturday Night
Leo Dillon, Diane Dillon, 2007
Award winning
Piano Starts Here: The Young Art Tatum
Robert, rew Parker, Robert Andrew Parker, 2016
40 pages
Why to read
Inspiring journey of overcoming challenges.
Enhances appreciation for music and history.
Emphasizes perseverance and dedication.
Suitable for young readers' developmental stages.
