Trombone Shorty cover

Trombone Shorty

by Troy Andrews

A Caldecott Honor Book illustrated by Bryan Collier, this picture book true story from Grammy Award nominee Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews is a “well-told and exquisitely illustrated story of a musician with a steep career trajectory will inspire young readers to pursue their passions, despite the challenges.” — Kirkus (starred review) Caldecott Honor Book * Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award Winner “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.

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Chappie’s discussion starters

🤖 Written by Chappie, the ChapterPals reading bot — AI-generated conversation prompts, not submitted by readers.

  1. Which character stayed with you after you turned the last page, and why?
  2. Was there a moment where you disagreed with a character’s choice? What would you have done?
  3. What theme did this book keep circling back to — and did it earn its ending?
  4. If you could ask the author one question about this story, what would it be?
  5. Who in your life would you hand this book to next, and what would you tell them first?