Log in to track your reading progress.
Overview
Fittingly for one who would offer his "songs of freedom" as redemption for Jamaica's black "sufferers," Bob Marley's mixed ancestry embodied his homeland's tormented colonial past. Born Nesta Robert Marley in St. Ann, Jamaica, in 1945, Marley was the son of a British naval officer - a member of the ruling class - and a black teenage girl. Growing up with his mother in rural Jamaica, Marley was well acquainted with the harsh life of poverty endured by native blacks, and at a very early age began expressing through music his sadness and hope for a better life. By the time of his death at age 36, Marley was known as "The Prophet," the most revered figure in Africa and Jamaica and a political and spiritual hero to the rest of the world. His unique lyrical message, a powerful mix of peace and rebellion founded in his Rastafari faith, combined with the hypnotic rhythm of the Jamaican-based music called reggae, had catapulted Marley into international superstardom and transformed him into an enduring legend who continues to inspire fans of all ages and backgrounds.Traces the life of the Jamaican musician who helped popularize reggae before his untimely death.
Editorials
School Library Journal
Gr 6 Up-Marley stretches the bounds of the series, considering the fact that Bob Marley was not American, but Jamaican. This aside, the book is fascinating reading: it brings its subject alive, and inspires readers to listen to Marley's music. The text is filled with details that keep readers' interest. One immediately has the feeling that Marley was someone special. Dolan offers some helpful background on Jamaica, which provides needed historical context. Hendrix is a routine recounting of the guitarist's life. It has little to recommend it as compelling reading other than an introductory chapter that vividly evokes Hendrix's mind-blowing rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner" at Woodstock. After that, the text settles into a dry recounting of biographical facts. While there is no argument over Hendrix's enormous talent and his unquestioned influence on generations of rock guitarists, there is no escaping the more sordid aspects of his life, particularly the drug abuse and the unfortunate circumstances of his death. To his credit, Piccoli treats these matters objectively and does not hold the subject up as a role model. Both volumes are illustrated with excellent black-and-white photographs throughout. These titles won't be sought out for pleasure reading, but may prove useful for reports.-Tim Wadham, Dallas Public Library, TXBook Details
Published
August 28, 1996
Publisher
Philadelphia : Chelsea House, c1997.
Pages
112
Format
Binding
ISBN
9780791020418