Book Descriptions
for Ray Charles by Sharon Bell Mathis and George Ford
From Cooperative Children's Book Center (CCBC)
First published in 1973, this picture book biography was the first recipient of the Coretta Scott King Award for Illustration, for its evocative black-and-white artwork by George Ford. Nearly 30 years later, both the text and pictures still stand as an outstanding introduction to the life of the great singer who faced personal and professional obstacles. Sharon Bell Mathis has added a new introduction and afterword to bring the material up to date. (Ages 7–10)
CCBC Choices 2002 . © Cooperative Children's Book Center, Univ. of Wisconsin - Madison, 2002. Used with permission.
From the Publisher
As a young boy of four, Ray Charles fell in love with music, and as a man, the world fell in love with Ray Charles? marvelous mix of jazz, blues, and gospel music. His soulful melodies and heartfelt songs of joy have been embraced around the world for decades. In this republication of the award-winning biography originally published in 1973, readers learn the rags-to-riches story of Charles? life?from age seven, when he loses his sight completely, to age forty, when he performs to dazzled audiences worldwide and participates in the fight for racial justice. A new introduction by the author sets the context for Charles? journey to stardom, and an afterword updates his life after the end of the story. Ray Charles was a legendary figure, a superstar of the entertainment world. His story was that of a man who, against all odds, fulfilled his boyhood dream to ?be a great musician.?
Publisher description retrieved from Google Books.