Synopsis
Elijah Earl is used to keeping to himself. But he's not the only quiet one—Alishah hides behind her head scarf, Jacob twitches out of sight, Luis hides behind a book, and Pam Pam is the shyest of them all. It is not until the school janitor they call Doo-Wop Pop steps in that things begin to change for these shy students. Doo-Wop Pop, who was once an a cappella star, helps them form an unlikely doo-wop group, teaching them to be-boppa bold, be-boppa brave, and come-a, come-a, come-a outta the cave. By making music together, Elijah and the others form lasting friendships and discover talents they didn't even know they had!
This uplifting tale with vibrant artwork from Caldecott Honor–winning illustrator Bryan Collier can't be-boppa beat!
Children's Literature
This inspirational and uplifting story will inspire children of all ages and backgrounds. Set in a city school, the story tells of young Elijah Earl, who sneaks off to watch Mr. Searle, the building maintenance man, as he does his doo-wop pop with a broom and a mop. Mr. Searle once performed with a doo-wop group called the Icicles, and he sees potential not only in Elijah, but also in several other students who, like Elijah, are shy and introverted. Mr. Searle gathers this group of youngsters together and helps teach them to find their own voice and rhythm by listening to the world around them. More importantly, Mr. Searle teaches the children how to dream. Told entirely in rhyme, this book has its own rhythm and the illustrations are fantastic. Bryan Collier is the illustrator of several Caldecott honor books and the illustrations in this book have his same unique blend of realistic photographs and extraordinary artwork. Reviewer: Denise Daley