Hal Leonard Frankie Finds the Blues - Harper/Kelley - Book

Author/Composer:

HARPER, JOEL

Instrumentation:

TEXT

Model #:

285056

Author: Joel Harper
Illustrations: Gary Kelley
Format: Hardcover
Version: Story Book

When Frankie's grandmother invites him to a blues concert, he's hesitant at first - he loves hip hop! But he can't resist his beloved grandmother's invitation. Little does he know, that night ignites his passion for learning to play the blues. Along the way, an afternoon in the park opens a door for Frankie that proves to be life-changing. He not only learns to play guitar, but he also discovers the roots of the blues and its profound influence on popular music.

Endorsements
"Joel Harper's book, Frankie Finds the Blues, with Gary Kelley's artwork, is the ideal vehicle to open new minds and ears to such a vital music form. The roots of all of American popular music can be found in the blues, and this story illustrates the value in understanding and respecting the history of American music in general. I'm so hopeful that children who do read this book, and their parents and grandparents who read it with them, will continue to enjoy all music trends while finding a new love for the blues, as well." - Barbara Newman, President & CEO of The Blues Foundation

"Joel Harper has a winner here! This is a milestone, a first, a literary coup!" - Taj Mahal

"I absolutely love this book! I wish every kid who loves music could get a chance to read this and discover not only how fantastic the blues is, but understand why it is the living root of so much of the music we love today - from hip hop and rap, to classic and new R&B - even pop, rock and dance. Joel and Gary make the music come alive as something as much fun to play, as it is inspiring to learn about." - Bonnie Raitt

"In Frankie Finds the Blues, Joel has captured an important story. When you know your history and embrace the present, it equals a bright future." - Keb' Mo'

"The blues is such an important part of American music and Joel's book does an amazing job in introducing the music to the next generation. The blues has been with me since my childhood - while we were largely known for singing gospel, Pops' guitar laid the foundation for our music, and he was playing the blues. I hope every child gets to read this book and falls in love with the blues the way that I did." - Mavis Staples

"Joel Harper's book Frankie Finds the Blues introduces blues music to children in a fun, engaging, and understandable way. Blues music is my comforter when I'm down and my buddy when I'm up. It's great for children to understand and benefit from this feeling. I am happy to see a book for children about the blues which I hope may make blues deeply resonate with the reader as it did with me. Other threads running through the narrative are also important to get early on - like staying true to yourself while following your individual path with heart - a perfect job." - Charlie Musselwhite