Emily Dahowski- Ray Charles

Ray Charles written by Sharon Bell Mathis depicts the life of Ray Charles in a different light for many students. Ray Charles has become on the most influential jazz musicians in the United States. Yet, his journey to fame was not easy. Mathis gives an in-depth timeline of his life starting with the struggles of being blind as child and attempting to learn music at the same time as learning Braille. Throughout the book, Mathis explains how Ray Charles broke through all the barriers that were holding him back and learned how to love music. Fame didn't come easy to Ray Charles but music did and that is why he was able to keep going after each set back. He demonstrates that no matter how many obstacles you have to go through, it's all going to be worth it in the end. I would use this book during a jazz unit in a Middle School general music class. I would pair it with a project of famous musicians who have greatly impacted Jazz music.