Thursday, May 1, 2014

Hey, Charleston! by Ann Rockwell-ADVISABLE



Rockwell, Ann. Ill. by Collin Bootman, Hey, Charleston!: The True Story of the Jenkins Orphanage Band. Pgs. 32. Lerner Publishing, 2013. $16.95

In 1891, Reverend Daniel Joseph Jenkins opened up an orphanage. To help support the growing orphans, the reverend asked townspeople to donate old instruments, so the kids could learn to play. Soon the band became a sensation in Charleston. The children performed a type of rhythm music they called “rag”, even as far as Paris and London. Not only did they make enough to support themselves, but also enough to support the orphanage that exists today. From this band, came some of the greatest names in Jazz history such as Duke Ellington and Freddie Green.

The layout and pictures are well-done. The inclusion of lesser known facts easily keeps the reader engaged. An informative, interesting book that will delight and entertain readers, especially those interested in music. EL, MS. ADVISABLE. Reviewer: Jessica Moody, Library Media Specialist, Olympus Jr. High.

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