In the book world, the month of November is dedicated to reading and sharing non-fiction books. This month I’ll be sharing some non-fiction books that I think would be great for readers, young and old. These books will cover various topics and interests.
Click HERE to see more amazing #NonFicNov books like MAKE A PRETTY SOUND.
MAKE A PRETTY SOUND
A Story of Ella Jenkins-The First Lady of Children’s Music
By: Traci N. Todd
Illustrated by: Eleanor Davis
Published: January 7, 2025
Publisher: Chronicle Kids
Non-Fiction/Biography
It’s rare for me to share a book that hasn’t been published yet, but Ella Jenkins’s recent death made me want to share this book with you. Even though you won’t find it on shelves until January, you can pre-order and have it delivered right to your door.
You may be familiar with Ella Jenkins’s most popular children’s song, “You’ll Sing a Song and I’ll Sing a Song“. Jenkins is known as the First Lady of Children’s Music. Jenkins died just last week, November 9, 2024, at the age of 100.
With a bit of history, civil rights, cultural diversity, and an appreciation for music, kids will learn about how music was important to Ella Jenkins. Ella Jenkins wasn’t just interested in music, she was also a table tennis champion. After being told she couldn’t whistle or couldn’t play, she defied the naysayers and did it anyway. She found ways to teach the children about music by adding words to the music they made.
Ella Jenkins traveled all over the world to bring music to the children. They begged her to sing them a song and to come back again and again. Ella Jenkins’s legacy of music will live on for years to come. A more detailed biography of Ella Jenkins is included at the end of the book. A full-page illustrated foldout of Ella Jenkins gathered with children singing and playing music is such a happy illustration. The inside covers of the book include a timeline of Ella’s life with a replica of her record. I’m sad Ella won’t be here to celebrate the publishing of this children’s book about her life, but I know that she is singing along with us while we sing her songs.
Check out this Ella Jenkins playlist on Spotify:
Traci N. Todd is a children’s book editor and writer whose work centers on Black culture and social justice. She is the author of Nina: A Story of Nina Simone, illustrated by Christian Robinson, and is a proud native Chicagoan, currently living in Jackson Heights, Queens. Check out her website, HERE.
To purchase a copy of MAKE A PRETTY SOUND, click HERE.
Other posts you might like:
Thanks to the publisher for sending a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. This review is my honest opinion. If you choose to make a purchase through the above links, I may receive a small commission without you having to pay a cent more for your purchase.
Check out my review policy, HERE.
Posted Under #NonficNov, biography, Book Review, Children's books, Eleanor Davis, Ella Jenkins, Music, non-fiction, Traci N. Todd