Double Bass Blues

Double Bass Blues is a picture book by Andrea Loney that follows a young boy named Nic who is a bass musician. The story is one of strength and talent in the face of adversity that will speak to young and old alike. The illustrations are vibrant and vivid that helps the story in all its ups and downs. The journey takes place in a large city and starts at school with Nic playing to a large crowd who praises his performance. He leaves the school cheerfully as he waves to his classmates, but that all changes as soon as he leaves campus. Nic is met with all sorts of obstacles and problems as he treks across the city. First, it’s a mean dog then it’s harassment and unwanted comments from various kids as he makes his way for the bus. A lot of this attention is caused by his oversized bass case that towers over Nic. Soon it starts raining causing Nic to get all wet and as he finally gets to his destination, but the building’s elevator is out of order. Nic soon finds himself in front of a door and knocks where he is greeted by his grandfather, and both are very happy to see each other. Soon Nic is happily playing his instrument with his grandfather and friends.

Loney, A. J., & Gutierrez, R. (2019). Double Bass Blues. Knopf Books for Young Readers.