Before John Was a Jazz Giant: A Song of John Coltrane    by Carole Boston Weatherford & Sean Qualls Order:  USA  Can Henry Holt, 2008 (2008) Hardcover     Reviewed by Hilary Daninhirsch This picture book is a tribute to jazz great John Coltrane. It takes the reader on a musical journey through Coltrane's childhood and shows us the roots of his love of music: 'Before John was a jazz giant, he heard steam engines whistling past, Cousin Mary giggling at jitterbuggers, and Bojangles tap-dancing in the picture show. Before John was a jazz giant, he heard Grandpa's Sunday sermons, Mama playing hymns for the senior choir, and the scoutmaster's call to join a band.' The story lays the foundation for Coltrane's ultimate rise to fame as a renowned jazz musician. A detailed mini-biography of John Coltrane is at the back of the book along with a selected list of Coltrane's CDs and recommendations for further reading. The artwork is almost collage-like, and - with its smoky grays and blues - has the feel of a jazz club. Before John Was a Jazz Giant is best for those children interested in music but, even for the unmusical, it's still a nice introduction to someone who had a significant impact on an aspect of American culture. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Kids books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews