Hello, Mister Blue

A child spends the day with their beloved Papa, sharing his “creamy, sweet coffee” during breakfast, playing violins with him outdoors, and meeting Papa’s friend, Mister Blue, a talented musician who is unhoused. Papa says that he and Mister Blue “go back. All the way back,” and scenes portray memories of the characters serving together in the military. Mister Blue plays all manner of instruments, including bucket drums and a harmonica, and his music has shepherded their neighborhood through moments of celebration, tragedy, and protest: it “makes all the people in the street... RISE! MARCH! AND... BOOGIE!” Though Papa offers reassurance, the child protagonist has questions about whether Mister Blue is safe outside, or scared, lonely, cold, or hungry. These queries culminate in the two inviting Mister Blue inside and out of the rain, and Mister Blue becoming the child’s friend, too. In oil and graphite, Peoples (America, My Love, America, My Heart) creates an array of thickly textured spreads, employing saturated earth tones for the present and grayscale scenes for the past, and artfully emphasizing the importance of uniting a community of ages and experiences. Back matter includes an author’s note. Protagonists read as Black. Ages 4–8. Agent: Marietta B. Zacker, Gallt & Zacker Literary. (May)