Blues Boy: The B. B. King Story
Blues Boy: The B. B. King Story
Blues Boy: The B. B. King Story
Description
Description
From his childhood in the Jim Crow South to his triumphant reign as the King of Blues, Blues Boy tells the aspirational story of American music icon B.B. King. For readers of Trombone Shorty, When Marian Sang, and Drum Dream Girl. Includes a timeline, author's note, and suggestions for reading and listening.
At twelve years old, Riley B. King borrowed fifteen dollars from his boss to buy a used guitar. Before long, he was playing his music for jubilant crowds all over the world. Blues Boy chronicles B. B. King's inspiring journey from his childhood in the Jim Crow South to global stardom. It is a compelling biography about the widely known and celebrated American music figure as well as a beautifully illustrated picture book with themes of family, community, history, kindness, empathy, and justice.
Acclaimed author Alice Faye Duncan makes B.B. King's story both accessible and inspiring for young readers. The text is sometimes uplifting and sometimes heart-wrenching, but always carries emotional depth, much like the music it celebrates. Illustrator and visual artist Carl Joe Williams provides artwork that is rich and distinctive, bringing B.B. King's story to life on every page. Blues Boy will find a place on the shelf with books like Trombone Shorty and Radiant Child. Includes backmatter.
Critical Reviews
Critical Reviews
A lyrical poem by Duncan opens the book, setting a poignant tone that mirrors the emotional depth of the blues, capturing its essence. Her assured prose throughout gently guides readers into the life of one of the genre's most iconic figures. Through a rich interplay of soft and vibrant colors, expressive shapes, and soulful portraits, Williams's art--crafted in oil and acrylic collage--amplifies the biography's emotional resonance and brings King's story vividly to life. - Horn Book (starred review)
In oratorical language that rises and falls like a fervent sermon, Duncan takes her subject from teased, stuttering child in the Mississippi cotton fields to renowned "King of the Blues." In Williams' paint-and-collage scenes--geometric patterns predominantly in pastel blues and greens--represent musical soundscapes behind the musician and groups of dark-skinned figures with reverently downcast eyes. - Booklist
Publishing Information
Publishing Information
The Allstora Membership
Membership Perks:
- Save 30% on all online store purchases
- Exclusive access to author's content
- You pay less, but authors still earn double
Membership Terms:
- To access membership discount simply log in and add to cart, discount applied automatically.
- One month free trial, cancel anytime. Membership renews on the 15th of each month.