Written by Roxane Orgill, Illustrated by Francis Vallejo
In 1958 Esquire Magazine wanted to create a special edition on American jazz. A graphic designer, Art Kane, from New York City, pitched an idea to the magazine. He wanted to gather as many jazz musicians as possible for a group photograph, something that had never been done. He got the go ahead. But now, how many, if any, would show up to have their picture taken? Jazz Day: the Making of a Famous Photograph, pays homage to that amazing photograph through a collection of poetry. Each poem captures the spirit of the musicians as well as other people and the electrifying atmosphere surrounding that extraordinary day in Harlem in 1958. I thought this book was fascinating and so alive with the spirit of jazz music of that era. You can almost hear the music. Along with the poetry, there are also short biographies on those men and women featured in the poems. And the iconic photograph is also included in a pull out page. This book has also won top picture book from Horn Book this year. This book is well worth reading and sharing for its part in our American history.
Review by Renee Larsen, Hillside Elementary Media Center
Rating: ★★★★★ (5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades 3-6 or anyone who loves music, jazz and jazz history
Jazz Day: The Making of a Famous Photograph
Written by Roxane Orgill, Illustrated by Francis Vallejo
Candlewick Press
55 pages
Release Date: March 8, 2016
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
