I and I Bob Marley Tony Medina Jesse Joshua Watson

I and I Bob Marley by Tony Medina illus. by Jesse Joshua Watson Medina tells Marley's story in 17 poems. Beginning with Marley's birth in Nine Miles. Medina shines a light on a very influential musician/activist. Marley's music and his message of peace touched many people. Medina easily conveys this so young readers will know Bob Marley was more than a great voice. Jesse Joshua Watson's gorgeous illustrations are a perfect fit to Medina's text. Watson's illustrations are strong enough to stand alone. Without reading a single word there's still a story. Its in Marley's young eyes of wonder or the man with the half open coconut and the smile on his face, or an adult Marley holding broken chains with a look of no more on his face. This beautiful book was made with love, I say that based off the very detailed the notes. Only an author who cared enough would take the time to expand on all 17 poems. A few things Medina gives us in the notes - what Rastafarianism is and its beginnings. How Jamaica was formed, and how Africans came to inhabit the island. The beginnings of Reggae music. Ages 7 up

This book is published by Lee and Low Books - On their website there's a wonderful interview with the author and illustrator about the book. You should check it out. Oh wait here it is -
Tony Medina and Jesse Joshua Watson on I and I Bob Marley