Married couple author Lesa Cline-Ransome and illustrator James E. Ransome's 2016 picture book is iconographically adapted in this realistically-painted look at the life of jazz legend Louis Armstrong. Featuring narration by Arnell Powell—who adopts a pleasant, gravelly tone when imitating Louis for quotes (“My whole life has been happiness”), the story kicks off with Armstrong's birth in New Orleans, where the poor, black, but definitely lucky little boy sold newspapers and apples to earn money and was drawn to local music—from brass bands to funeral marches. Armstrong's cheapo cornet didn't compare to instruments wielded by idols like Joe “King” Oliver, but his time spent for punishment at the Colored Waifs' Home for Boys (Armstrong was a repeat offender who was known to police for mischief, including shooting off a pistol) proved to be a turning point, as he grew fluent on other instruments and became a bandleader (“me and music got married at the home”). “Satchel mouth”—as Armstrong was known for his big smile—was eventually taken under Oliver's wing, ultimately flourishing in Chicago and the wider world. This peppy tribute also includes a read-along option and an author's note with more details about Armstrong's life. Recommended. Aud: K, E, P. (J. Williams-Wood)
Just a Lucky So and So: The Story of Louis Armstrong
(2016) 16 min. DVD: $38.99. Dreamscape Media. PPR. Closed captioned. ISBN: 978-1-52004-422-4. Volume 32, Issue 2
Just a Lucky So and So: The Story of Louis Armstrong
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