★ “This picture-book biography of blues musician Davis (1926–2017) is structured around a simple but resonant idea: ‘sometimes music cuts like a knife,’ and sometimes ‘a knife cuts through the music.’… Peterson captures the boy’s determination through memorable anecdotes, from discovering a discarded harmonica while picking peas for dinner to constructing a diddley bow from a broom, some wire, and a barrel hoop. When polio leaves him unable to play guitar in conventional ways, the narrative pivots on an inspired moment of experimentation: use of a butter knife to help create his singular sound. Peterson’s prose borrows the rhythms of the blues itself, with carefully calibrated repetition that gives the story a musical pulse. Christie’s illustrations, in electric blues, blazing reds, and luminous yellows, are equally expressive. Floating notes, expansive landscapes, and Davis’s glowing yellow guitar transform sound into image while underscoring the narrative’s emotional currents. Particularly effective is the recurring motif of ‘finding the tones between the notes,’ which evolves from a musical technique into a metaphor for creativity and self-definition. Together, text and art create a portrait less concerned with overcoming adversity than with artistic invention.”—The Horn Book, starred review
★ “This biography of CeDell Davis (1926–2017) reads much like the “deep-down, stir-your-heart, rattle-your-bones blues” that he played… This lyrically and visually stunning biography of a talented musician is a recommended purchase for all library collections.”—School Library Journal, starred review
“A musical prodigy adapted to setbacks with innovation… Many readers will likely be unfamiliar with Davis; this story offers a deeply empathetic portrayal of his disability experience and his adaptations. A moving biography of a resourceful and resilient blues musician.”—Kirkus Reviews
“This inspiring narrative nonfiction brings the power of perseverance and creativity to life for upper elementary readers, telling the remarkable story of CeDell Davis, a child who loved the blues so deeply that he refused to let anything stop him from playing… This moment captures the heart of the book: resilience, ingenuity, and the refusal to give up. The writing flows with a rhythm that echoes the blues itself, making it engaging and emotional. The illustrations are dark and light, abstract and expressive, perfectly matching the tone of his journey. Davis’ story is a powerful tribute to finding music within, no matter the obstacles. A perfect read for classrooms, it opens meaningful discussions about resilience and following your dreams.”—Booklist
“It makes my heart so happy to see this book! I met CeDell in my mid-20s when I didn’t know the first thing about the blues. But his sound floored me and his spirit had an even greater impact on me. One of my mentors, Col. Bruce Hampton, turned us on to CeDell. We couldn’t believe our ears! Then we met him! Then we even got to play with him! Aside from the total musical wonder we experienced, the thing that honestly struck me the hardest was that CeDell was always lifting everyone else’s spirits. His voice and guitar would also heal you for sure. He was a singular human being.”—Oteil Burbridge, two-time Grammy Award-winning bassist
“CeDell’s life and music crackled and popped like an old 78 RPM record. As this book beautifully illustrates, his story was one of both loss and joy. Which is, of course, the story of the blues.”—Roger Stolle, Cat Head Delta Blues & Folk Art store, Clarksdale, MS
