Drummer Boy of John John

PreS-Gr 2–Lessac has long been a lively interpreter of Caribbean culture.  In her latest collaboration with her husband, they imagine the childhood of Winston “Spree” Simon, who is credited with developing the steel drum. Greenwood sets the story in the days preceding Carnival, when the bands are preparing for the parade and anticipating the prize–free rotis (spiced chicken wrapped in dough) from the Roti King. Winston desperately wants that reward, but what are his chances without a band, much less an instrument? Lessac’s vibrant gouache scenes in her signature folk style radiate the energy of the music and the lushness of Trinidad. As the author introduces each group of musicians, he spells out their unique sounds–an invitation for listeners to repeat the refrains. So the Chac-chac (gourds with seeds) players produce a “shoush-shap/shukka-shac/shoush-shap/shukka-shac.” Munching on a mango near the junkyard, Winston ponders his dilemma; a casual toss of the pit against metal objects produces the “pong, ping, pang” that leads to a solution. He discovers that the number of dents and bumps and the size of the metal container all affect the pitch. Friends gather to paint, rehearse, perform, and celebrate victory. The finale pulses with color and pattern. A bit of colloquial speech adds flavor, as do the humorous visuals, such as the matron in her pink plastic curlers. A glossary, two-page author’s note, and list of sources round out this upbeat celebration of creativity.-Wendy Lukehart, Washington DC Public Library