Talkin' Guitar: A Story of Young Doc Watson

Reviewed by: Bernie Alie - Kennebunk Free Library, Kennebunk, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: May 10, 2016

Review

A picture book biography focused on the childhood of musician Arthel "Doc" Watson. Young Arthel absorbed the sounds he heard around him. Whether the whistle of the train, mooing of a cow, or wind and rain through the trees, it all was music to the young blind boy. Perhaps it was his blindness that enabled him to listen more closely. With much practice, he learned to create the sounds himself.

Beautiful illustrations plus colorful language make for a complete package.

The cadence of the text is reminiscent of the folk tunes Watson loved. Melodic language illustrates descriptive comparisons and provides vibrant examples for teachers. His first notes on harmonica sound "like a wildcat howling," and his first notes on banjo are described as sounding "like a rusty door hinge." Both are accompanied by illustrations depicting his dog and cat fleeing from the discordant noise. Yet he "keeps on practicing" in a message of determination that allows him to rise above any restrictions that his blindness might generate.

The package is further enhanced by details included in the watercolor illustrations. The blue mountain lands and the Appalachian boy with the guitar are highlighted. Illustrations frequently depict a cat, lending support to the line "Arthel had ears like a cat." The two page spread of black with the words "Maybe it was because he was blind" is a stark portrayal of the world Watson inhabited.

Music teachers and language arts teachers will want to add this biography to their repertoire. Strongly recommended for all libraries.

Overall Book Score: very good