Oscar Peterson: The Man and His Jazz

This biography of Oscar Peterson, written by award-winning author Jack Batten, tells the story of a black kid from a Montreal ghetto who reached acclaim in the great music halls of the world.

The book provides a complete and compelling account of Peterson's life, focusing on his musicianship and the family members and professional colleagues who influenced it.

With particular authority and precision, the author describes Peterson's career highlights and distinctive techniques both live and on record.

The book is illustrated with badly reproduced photographs, but offers serious students of jazz insights aplenty into one of the modern age's greatest performers.

Grades 6-9.