Ella Fitzgerald: The Tale of a Vocal Virtuosa

Bibliography

Pinkney, A. D. (2002). ELLA FITZGERALD: THE TALE OF A VOCAL VIRTUOSA. Hyperion Books for Children. ISBN: 978-0-7868-0568-6.

Plot Summary

This book tells the story of the infamous Ella Fitzgerald's journey from a young girl with a dream to becoming one of the most famous jazz singers in history. The book's narrator is "Scat Cat Monroe," which gives Ella's journey such a musical voice. 

Critical Analysis

This story connects strongly to the music culture and more importantly the Black and African American culture because of her accomplishment of being one of the most important Black women in the industry. It focused on her journey and perseverance to become successful in a time where Black performers did not receive much respect. 

Andrea Davis Pinkney and Brian Pinkney's background also matters because they are both Black creators telling this story. They give a stronger cultural connection and authenticity because Ella's life and legacy are presented with much love, respect, pride, and understanding. Andrea's writing style brings the jazz, rhythm, and energy to life. With Brian's illustrations, it brings it all to life.

Overall, ELLA FITZGERALD: THE TALE OF A VIRTUOSA is a strong multicultural book because it honors Black culture through music and illustration.  

Review Excerpts

"Ostensibly narrated by a beboppin' feline named Scat Cat Monroe, this book follows Ella Fitzgerald from her childhood in Yonkers, New York through the rise of her career; from winning a talent contest at the Apollo Theater to joining the Chick Webb Orchestra to scat singing with Dizzy Gillespie." Children's Literature, starred review.

"In this terrific picture-book biography, Scat Cat Monroe, a slick, fast-talking cat tells the story of Ella Fitzgerald, the Queen of Scat. Scat Cat (who shares author credit on the title page) claims to have been there from the start and considers himself the keeper of Ella's flame. " Kirkus, starred review.

Connections

This book would be great for music history lessons or a biography study unit. Students could discuss how jazz influenced writing styles.