Awesome African-American Rock and Soul Musicians

November 1, 2012

Gr 5-9-These volumes illuminate 8 to 10 notable individuals from various categories. Featured subjects are chosen from various time periods, beginning with earlier figures and working up to the present day. For example, Actors covers Paul Robeson (1898-1976) to Halle Berry (1966). An introductory chapter places the individuals' lives in historical, social, and political context, and then devotes one chapter for each subject. The people profiled range from little known to well known (e.g., Novelists explores the life and work of both Harriet Adams Wilson and Toni Morrison). Each book is attractively laid out and organized. The texts flow well, and color and black-and-white photos are pleasingly reproduced.

Copyright 2012 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

February 1, 2013
Grades 5-8 From the African-American Collective Biographies series, this volume introduces nine significant figures in rock and soul music: Chuck Berry, Ray Charles, Little Richard, James Brown, Aretha Franklin, Jimi Hendrix, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, and Prince. After a general introduction to rock and soul music, each chapter looks at the individual performer's life, career, musical style, achievements, and contributions to the field. Two well-chosen photos appear in each chapter, and about half the illustrations are in color. Each chapter includes a time line and a Career Highlights box, source notes, a glossary, and a bibliography appear in the back matter. The text is lively and sometimes opinionated. And while readers may occasionally disagree with Aretha's opinions, there's no denying the clarity of the writing or the enthusiasm he brings to the subject. The only thing missing is the music itself, and that's readily available online. A fresh introduction to a timeless subject.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2013, American Library Association.)