Marcus Amaker, Charleston's first Poet Laureate, has released his first book for kids. Black Music Is is “a poetic love letter to African-American music and history through the ears of the book's star, Bebop the cat.”
Black Music Is is recommended for ages 8-12. It is perfect for anyone looking to learn more about music, and sharpen their knowledge of Black history. The picture book is illustrated by celebrated Charleston artist Nathan Durfee.
Amaker is giving the book free to 150 local schools to celebrate the beginning of the new academic year.
“I am a music nerd, and I care a lot about what students are learning,” Amaker said. “My hope is that this book deepens someone's appreciation of what Black musicians have done for our global musical landscape.”
The book is published by Free Verse Press, a new independent publisher based in Charleston. You can purchase it from Amaker’s website, or at any online book retailer.
Amaker, who is the recent recipient of a fellowship from the Academy of American Poets., will take part in multiple book signings:
- August 22nd at 1 pm: Buxton Books
- August 28th at 4 pm: Itinerant Literate
- August 29th at 9:30 am: Sightsee
