Pablo Neruda - Monica Brown - Julie Paschkis

Pablo Neruda: Poet of the People by Monica Brown illus. by Julie Paschkis
Beginning when Neruda was just a little boy with the given name Neftali. It shows the poet at different stages in his life in such a beautiful way that it's easy to get lost in his world.

Brown's text has a rhythm that would make any poet proud.

"Pablo loved the stones of Chile. He wrote about stones by waves onto the beach and stones polished by sand and salt."

Paschkis beautiful illustrations pop and adding more life to the story. I am a fan of Brown and Paschkis, so I was very happy to see how well their styles blend. Words in English and Spanish are sprinkled within the art. It's a goregous collaboration between artist and illustrator.

If there was greater back matter I would've loved this biography even more. An author's note and resources are included.

A starred Kirkus Review
A book preview

I've linked this post to Non fiction Monday. This week's round up can be found at Amy O'Quinn's

Janis Joplin:Rise Up Singing - Ann Angel

Janis Joplin: Rise Up Signing by Ann Angel
If any one asked me who Janis Joplin was, I could eaily answer a rock singer from the sixties. That's all I knew, until now.

The biography opens with a wonderful introduction by Sam Andrew, a band mate and close friend of Janis Joplin. I was moved by Andrew's words about a talented friend who died too soon. Janis Joplin's musical career was barely three years. Angel begins with Joplins High School years at Port Arthur Texas in the 1950's.

Before reading this I always took Janis Joplin's success for granted. But Joplin wasn't one of many female rock star artist, she was the first. The author does an excellent job of explaining this from the very beginning. She addresses the 1950's culture and everyone's need to fit in. For women that meant getting married right out of high school. Joplin simply wasn't that type of woman.

This great biography gives us a very good sense of Janis Joplin in all the stages in her life. From Joplin's supportive family and friends, to Joplins Big Brother and the Holding Company bandmates,to her Blues musical influence, to Joplins musical talents, and addictions. Angel doesn't gloss over Joplin's drug addiction which ultimately killed her. The author also captures the hippie culture of the 1960's.

I love there are quotes from many, including bandmates, friends and Joplin's sister. Throughout, there are black and white photographs. In the back the author includes several notes attributing all the quotes as well as bibliography. Some teens may find it hard to relate to Joplins lack of choices or freedom due to gender. Though many will be able to relate to her outcast status and Joplins desire to find whatever it was she was looking for.

I linked this post to nonfiction Monday, the round up can be found at Picture Book of the Day.