Blue Grass Boy

Praise

“This picture book is both a biography of Bill Monroe and a history of bluegrass music, the genre he was instrumental in creating… (t)he book’s tone is nostalgic, with folksy narration… (a) tribute to an Americana icon and his musical legacy.” – Kirkus Reviews

“(I)nformation-packed (with) creative text…Fotheringham’s inventive, digital artwork strikes a playful note…A spirited picture book introducing the ‘Father of Bluegrass Music.’”
— Booklist

“This picture book biography of Bill Monroe…richly recalls the hills and mountain streams of his Kentucky upbringing. The writing uses imagery and a voice that evokes the oral storytelling tradition to great effect. It’s not just that Rosenstock describes the rolling hills of Kentucky, it’s the way she uses language to lovingly speak of the land, its people, and the region using dialect and vocabulary that Monroe or any of his loved ones might if they were telling this story. The author adeptly and squarely aims this book at the intended audience by highlighting details young readers can connect with…The digital illustrations are vibrant with a retro feel…(and) complement the imagery of Monroe’s music. A highly recommended purchase.” – School Library Journal

“Rosenstock tells the story of bluegrass musician Bill Monroe, who found refuge from a sometimes painful childhood… (illustrator) Fotheringham’s high-energy digital art shows Monroe’s development from unhappy boy to confident performer with his band… as Monroe hits his musical stride, the spreads fill with inky blue, like a moonlit Kentucky night.” – Publishers Weekly