With illustrations that look like a quilt and a stained glass window had a baby and lyrical language straight from Alice Faye's heart and the black experience, this book shares the story of BB King -- before Beale St. -- before Lucille.  In fact, this is the backstory to the part of the story that many of us are familiar with.  Duncan tells of the heartbreak that was soothed by the blues music of church and beyond, of the struggles for freedom and equality, and how music was at the heart of it all.  Using rhythm, alliteration, onomatopoeia and figurative language like similes and metaphors, the BB's life and the book itself reads like a blues song.

What a joy to listen to BB play the blues. The words on this one are clean and appropriate for kids, the music is from one of BB's most well-known and most well-respected concerts. I also like that there are various pictures of him through the years. If you'd prefer to watch him play live, check out the YouTube playlist in the links section.  There are also some facts videos and biographies there for music lessons with your students if you are a teacher..

YouTube playlist with lots of music from BB, live performances and more, along with kid-friendly biographies, and more
Pinterest board with activities, images, video links and more!

Moira Donohue returns for a guest appearance to talk about her educational market book, BLUES MUSIC. Join us as we discuss the differences in work-for-hire projects vs. traditional picture books, chat about Moira's process and her experience with the write-for-hire market (and lots more). Perfect epiosde for teachers and for writers who have considered dabbling their toes in the educational market. If you're a fan of blues, don't miss it for sure!​

I chose to highlight this one for the littles because it is a simple, but well-defined example of the blues form while talking about things they can relate to, and I think it would be helpful for teachers and families to add this to their daily playlist as it could improve responsibility around the house (and maybe the school). There are more authentic performances, background music, and much more on the playlist. Check it out!

Resources, Resources, Resources!

YouTube playlist with authentic blues, kid-friendly blues-y takes, history of the blues, intro to blues, background vibes, and more!

​Pinterest board with some vibey backing tracks, quotes, bio sketches, images, coloring sheets, worksheets and more!

Moira's picture is linked to her website and the book image is linked to Goodreads where you can find out all the important information, including how to purchase.