Mary's Idea

Chris Raschka's picture book Marys Idea is a beautiful and inspiring celebration of the life and work of jazz pianist Mary Lou Williams, who taught herself to play the piano at three and was considered a professional at fifteen. The book combines a biography of Williams with illustrations that capture the sound, passion, innovation, and love of the arts that she shared with the world.

Format: Hardback
Length: 32 pages
Publication date: 20 July 2023
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers Inc

Two-time Caldecott Medal winner Chris Raschka pays tribute to the remarkable jazz pianist Mary Lou Williams, capturing the essence of her sound, passion, innovation, and boundless love for the arts. Through the pages of Marys Idea, Raschka weaves a captivating and immersive narrative that delves into the world of music and the creative process. This picture book is a testament to the enduring legacy of Williams, a musician who defied societal norms and achieved remarkable success despite facing discrimination due to her gender and skin color.

At the tender age of three, Mary Lou Williams embarked on a remarkable journey of self-discovery. With unwavering determination, she taught herself the intricate art of playing the piano, a skill that would eventually propel her to professional acclaim. By the age of fifteen, she had already made a name for herself as a talented pianist and composer.

Williams' musical prowess extended far beyond her piano skills. She wrote hundreds of compositions, recorded hundreds of songs, and even penned arrangements for renowned musicians such as Duke Ellington and Benny Goodman. Her contributions to the jazz genre were immense, and her talent and creativity left an indelible mark on the music world.

However, Mary Lou Williams' remarkable journey often went unnoticed in the broader canon of American music. She faced gender and racial barriers that hindered her recognition and success. Despite these challenges, she remained unwavering in her pursuit of artistic excellence and her commitment to sharing her passion with the world.

Marys Idea, written by Chris Raschka and illustrated with vibrant and expressive artwork, serves as a poignant tribute to Mary Lou Williams. The book combines elements of biography and celebration, offering readers a deeper understanding of the artist's life and work. Raschka's text is filled with rhythm and movement, capturing the essence of Williams' musicality and her creative spirit. The illustrations, rendered in Raschka's signature style, bring the story to life, with each page bursting with color and vitality.

What sets Marys Idea apart is its focus on celebrating the imagination, ideas, and creative process. Raschka weaves a narrative that encourages readers to explore their own creativity and embrace the power of imagination. The book encourages readers to tap into their own ideas and turn them into something beautiful and meaningful. It serves as a reminder that creativity knows no boundaries and that anyone can pursue their dreams with determination and passion.

Fans of various genres will find resonance in Marys Idea. It appeals to readers who enjoy the music of Trombone Shorty and Chris Raschkas acclaimed books about musicians, including Charlie Parker Played Be Bop and Mysterious Thelonious. The book's themes of music, creativity, and self-discovery will resonate with fans of Traci N. Todds and Christian Robinsons Nina, Brian Selznicks and Pam Muñoz Ryans When Marian Sang, and other works that explore the intersection of music and personal identity.

In addition to its literary merits, Marys Idea also includes valuable backmatter that provides further insight into the life and work of Mary Lou Williams. The author includes a brief biography of the artist, highlighting her achievements and contributions to the world of music. Raschka also shares his inspiration for writing the book and the process of creating the illustrations. This additional information enhances the reader's understanding and appreciation of the artist's legacy.

In conclusion, Marys Idea is a stunning and captivating picture book that pays tribute to the remarkable life and legacy of Mary Lou Williams. Written by Chris Raschka and illustrated with exquisite artwork, the book offers readers a glimpse into the world of music and the creative process. It celebrates the imagination, ideas, and creative spirit, encouraging readers to explore their own creativity and embrace the power of imagination. Whether you are a fan of jazz or a lover of picture books, Marys Idea is a must-read that will leave a lasting impression on your heart and mind.

Weight: 394g
Dimension: 262 x 241 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780063210509