Kid Musicians: True Tales of Childhood from Entertainers, Songwriters, and Stars

Before they filled stadiums, topped the charts, and changed music history, they were kids discovering the joy of making music. Kid Musicians introduces young readers to the surprising childhood stories of 16 legendary performers, revealing how curiosity, creativity, and determination helped shape some of the world's most influential artists.

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Long before Taylor Swift wrote hit songs, she grew up on a Christmas tree farm. Before Beyoncé became a global superstar, she and her friends played truth or dare after rehearsals. Louis Armstrong marched through the streets of New Orleans playing music in neighborhood parades, while Dolly Parton entertained classmates with stories she invented herself. Through funny, fascinating, and inspiring true stories, award-winning author Robin Stevenson shows how ordinary childhood experiences helped extraordinary musicians find their voices.

Featuring kid-friendly text and lively full-color illustrations by Allison Steinfeld, Kid Musicians celebrates artists from many musical traditions. Whether readers ages 8-12 dream of performing on stage, writing songs, or simply love music, these engaging biographies will inspire them to express themselves and march to the beat of their own drum.

Inside you'll discover:

• True childhood biographies of 16 influential musicians, performers, and songwriters
• Inspiring stories featuring Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, Dolly Parton, Ella Fitzgerald, Harry Styles, Mariah Carey, Paul McCartney, Yo-Yo Ma, Louis Armstrong, and more
• Full-color illustrations throughout
• Kid-friendly nonfiction perfect for independent and reluctant readers
• An engaging introduction to music history through memorable childhood experiences
• Short chapters ideal for classrooms, libraries, homeschooling, and family reading

Meet the kids behind the music and discover how imagination, perseverance, and a love of performing can inspire your own creative journey.