Jazz

Myers, Walter Dean. Jazz. Illustrated by Christopher Myers. Holiday House, 2006. 48 pages. $18.95. ISBN 9780823415458.

Sound recording narrated and sung by James “D-Train” Williams and Vaneese Thomas. Live Oak Media, 2007. $18.95. ISBN 9781430100218.

Summary:

Can jazz be explained or does it have to be experienced? This book and CD set is a wonderful introduction to this dynamic, American art form: through the expressive, free verse poetry of Walter Dean Myers; through the lively, rich paintings of Christopher Myers; and through the music, narration, and performance of James “D-Train” Williams and Vaneese Thomas. The text and the recording can stand on their own, a tribute to the strength of each one. In “Good-Bye to Old Bob Johnson” the first part is mournful, (“The drums are solemn as we walk along/The banjo twangs a gospel song”), while the second part (“Faster”) is lively and celebratory (“Yes the church band is swinging/And the sisters are singing/A jazzy lullaby”). Part one shows a funeral procession with musicians, in tones of blues and grays; part two is bright greens and yellows, with sliding and shuffling dancers. In the recording, the accompanying music is perfectly attuned to the mood of the poem: part one is slow, New Orleans jazz processional music, while part two is syncopated, with more of a bright, celebratory Big Band sound. There is also an introduction, glossary, and timeline.

Curriculum Connections:

For this age group, the text and CD could be used in many ways. Obviously it could be used in a music class to introduce the sounds and styles of jazz. It would also be interesting to introduce these poems to young writers, highlighting Myers’ use of language and rhythm (“We’re stepping/ and we’re hipping/ and we’re dipping, too”). Then play selections from the recording and compare the two experiences of listening. This book and CD could be used to highlight the contributions of black Americans in the early 20^th century.

Personal Reflections:

Christopher Myers’ paintings are loose and brushy, a perfect inspiration for the various moods of jazz as well as the verse by Walter Dean Myers. The listening experience was a pleasure, moving through many forms and styles of jazz: New Orleans, Blues, Boogie, Bee Bop, Swing, and more.

Awards:

Sound Recording: ALA Odyssey Award for Excellence in Audiobook Production, 2007; ALA Notable Recording, 2007.

Book: 2007 Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor Award.

Age/Interest Range:

K-12

Genre/Themes:

Music, Jazz, History, Black Americans

Read-Alikes:

Although there are other books about Jazz musicians for children, this one is unique in its free-flowing verse that exemplifies features like rhythm and syncopation; it is especially enjoyable in the audio recording. One that is close to the writing style is Jazz Age Josephine (Winter) about a famous jazz-era dancer and singer, Josephine Baker.