I did not know who Carlos Santana was before I opened the pages of this joyfully illustrated picture book. Gary Golio brings us the sound of the heart, and the song of the world as it is found in Carlos Santana.
Let me have you give a listen to his music as you read my review. 🙂
What I am Reviewing
Carlos Santana: Sound of the Heart, Song of the World.
Gary Golio
Rudy Guiterrez (illustrator)
Christy Ottiviano Books
Music, blues, Mexico, Electric Guitar, Biography, Picture Book
40 pages, ages 5-9
Reviewed for Raincoast Books.
Carlos Santana grew up surrounded by music. His father, a beloved mariachi performer, teaches his son how to play the violin when he is only six years old. But when Carlos discovers American blues, he is captivated by the raw honesty of the music. Unable to think of anything else, he loses all interest in the violin. When Carlos finally receives his first guitar, his whole life begins to change.
From his early exposure to mariachi to his successful fusing of rock, blues, jazz, and Latin influences, here is the childhood story of a legendary musician.
The details
The first thing that hits me in this picture book are the brilliant colours. Just check them out eh?
All the Blues, reds, yellows that flood the pages, curving, flowing lines…. it all screamed music and rhythm to me. So well suited to a biography about Carlos Santana whose life was filled with music.
The story itself is well written, walking us through Carlos’ life from early childhood through to young adulthood. Excitement over music, it’s sound and how it meant to shared with others. This love was with him from early on, nurtured by his father who taught him the violin. It’s hard with this book to not tell you the whole story!
Should you get it?
I can see this book being an important addition to the study of music and/or character. Watching a boy, watching his dad. Seeing his dad work hard, and listening as his dad teaches EVEN IF he’s learning something he’d rather not. Observing his determination and love of the new was intriguing. I wanted to see how his dad would react, perhaps you might too! Learning new rhythms, discovering a combined world. It is well worth the read. Add Carlos Santana to your music studies!
I love Santana’s music! This book looks beautiful too!
I thought it was well done Kym
That looks like a beautiful book! I love how art and music go so well together to create imaginary.
I liked how it was put together. gave me a good feel for him and his eventual music.
Great! It is pretty unusual to see a biography for children about recent performers. This looks so cheerful and colorful. I would really enjoy reading it.
it is, I really liked this book.
Wow, this picture book about Carlos Santana sounds absolutely amazing! The vibrant colors and flowing lines really capture the essence of music and rhythm. It’s fascinating to learn about Santana’s journey from his early exposure to mariachi music to his fusion of various genres. I can’t wait to read it and explore the story of this legendary musician. It seems like a must-have for any music enthusiast, especially those interested in the best guitar parts.
thank you