Before John Was a Jazz Giant

Before John Was a Jazz Giant, is a wonderfully illustrated story chronicling the life of a young John Coltrane.  Each page brings to life the sounds John was surrounded by while growing up.  The story illustrates that music can be found everywhere, from “Grandpa’s Sunday sermons” to “steam engines whistling past.”  Not only is this a narrative of John’s life, it is also an accurate account of historically important events.  As one turns the pages, a second storyline of a generation unfolding comes to life.  The combination of art and prose makes this a beautiful biography of a “jazz giant.”

Teachers could use this book in a variety of ways.  First, she could use this book as an introduction to a music unit.  It would be fun to bring in a variety of jazz instruments and have the kids try them out.  Also, in the back of the book there is a section dedicated to suggested music to accompany the book – the teacher could bring in a sampling of jazz music.  This book could also be used to introduce an art lesson.  The illustrations are a cross between abstract and realism; a very interesting combination.  A third approach for using this book in the classroom could be in social studies.  Since the book also chronicles historical events, it would be a good tool to facilitate a discussion in social studies.  

Before John Was a Jazz Giant. ISBN 13: 987-0-8050-7994-4. Carole Boston Weatherford. 2008. Coretta Scott King Award for Illustration. Sean Qualls. Age 4-8. African American Non-Fiction. Biography.