Ben's Trumpet

Title: Ben's Trumpet
Author and Illustrator: Rachel Isadora
Genre: Historical Fiction

Summary:
This Caldecott winner transports it's reader back to the swinging 1920's, where jazz was the "cat's meow." Ben is a young boy who has a passion for music, particularly the trumpet. The only problem for Ben is he doesn't actually have an instrument of his own, but that doesn't mean he doesn't practice. Ben takes his imaginary trumpet every where and is always ready to start playing. One day a bunch of young boys ridicule Ben for playing his imaginary instrument. Ben's dream of one day being a musician seems to falter until the observant trumpeter at the local Zig Zag Club takes him under his wing. He puts a real trumpet into Ben's hand for the first time and teaches Ben to never give up on your dreams.

Making the Connection:
This story by Rachel Isadora is a great way to teach students to never give up on their dreams, no matter what type of obstacle may be in their way. Ben's Trumpet is perfect for introducing a history lesson on the 1920's or even a music lesson that covers jazz. This book's black and white illustrations mirror the art deco style that was popular in the 1920's, and is truly one of a kind.