American pianist and composer George
Gershwin’s music is no doubt familiar to most adults, perhaps through the
musicals Porgy and Bess and An American in Paris. His works spanned
musical genres – jazz, classical, blues, ragtime, in addition to Broadway
musicals. The picture book biography The Music in George’s Head: George
Gershwin Creates Rhapsody in Blue is as lively and affecting as his songs.
Its rhythmic text twirls across the pages as if dancing with the blues and
grays of the dynamic illustrations. Words and pictures together truly convey
what inspired Gershwin’s music: listening to the city sounds around him, the
music of the streets capturing his soul. Author Suzanne Slade and illustrator
Stacy Innerst collaborate seamlessly, introducing readers to Gershwin’s early
influences and short lifetime, ultimately focusing on the creative process that
generated the magnificent Rhapsody in Blue. As a reader, one feels very present
at New York City’s Aeolian Hall premiere in February 1924 – a concert entitled
“An Experiment in Modern Music” where jazz and classical music met in
Gershwin’s unique style. The presence of music in one person’s life and the
power of music shared over decades of time are brought home. An author’s note,
a timeline and a bibliography add even more to this exhilarating book. Ages
7-11, plus anyone who loves Gershwin, music or the creative spirit.
