Trombone Shorty

A Caldecott Honor Book
American Library Association Coretta Scott King Book Award Winner
STARRED REVIEW *"Well-told and exquisitely illustrated . . . will inspire young readers to pursue their passions, despite the challenges." ―Kirkus Reviews

"Who's that playing out there?" Bo Diddley asked the New Orleans crowd. It was a small child who'd been nicknamed "Trombone Shorty" because his trombone was twice as large as he was.

Trombone Shorty was lifted in the air and carried through the audience until he reached the stage with Bo Diddley. He has been onstage ever since. Hailing from the Tremé neighborhood of New Orleans, where music always floated in the air, Troy "Trombone Shorty" Andrews didn't always have the money to buy an instrument, but he did have the dream to play music.

This is the story of how he made his dream take flight. It's a story that will entertain young readers and their parents and resonate with anyone who has had to overcome obstacles to fulfill their dream. It's sure to be a favorite with jazz and general music lovers, but its message is universal.

Today, Troy "Trombone Shorty" Andrews is a Grammy-nominated musician who tours the world with his band, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue. He continues to inspire hope for the next generation in New Orleans and for music lovers everywhere.

You and your children will love having Andrews share his story. Illustrator Bryan Collier brings to life this living legend's narrative with energy and style, making visible the swirling sounds of jazz.


Author: Troy Andrews
Publisher: Abrams Books for Young Readers
Published: 04/14/2015
Pages: 40
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 1.10lbs
Size: 10.00h x 10.20w x 0.50d
ISBN: 9781419714658
Audience: Ages 4-8

Accelerated Reader:
Reading Level: 4.2
Point Value: 0.5
Interest Level: Lower Grade
Quiz #/Name: 172596 / Trombone Shorty


Award: Parents Choice Awards (Spring) (2008-Up) - Gold Medal Winner
Award: Orbis Pictus Award - Recommended
Award: Caldecott Medal - Honor Book
Award: Coretta Scott King Award - Winner
Award: Georgia Children's Book Award - Finalist


Review Citation(s):
Kirkus Reviews 02/01/2015
Publishers Weekly 02/09/2015
Booklist 03/15/2015 pg. 62
School Library Journal 04/01/2015 pg. 176
Horn Book Magazine 05/01/2015 pg. 125
Shelf Awareness 05/01/2015
Bulletin of Ctr for Child Bks 06/01/2015
Hornbook Guide to Children 07/01/2015 pg. 207 - Superior,Well Above Average
PW Children's Starred Reviews 12/02/2015 pg. 51

About the Author
Troy "Trombone Shorty" Andrews is an internationally renowned trombone and trumpet player who leads his band Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue. He lives in New Orleans.
Bryan Collier is an acclaimed illustrator who has won three Caldecott Honors and five Coretta Scott King Awards. He lives in Upstate New York.