Blues Boy: The B. B. King Story (HC) (2026)

From his childhood in the Jim Crow South to his triumphant reign as the King of Blues, Blues Boy tells the aspirational story of American music icon B.B. King. For readers of Trombone Shorty, When Marian Sang, and Drum Dream Girl. Includes a timeline, author's note, and suggestions for reading and listening.

At twelve years old, Riley B. King borrowed fifteen dollars from his boss to buy a used guitar. Before long, he was playing his music for jubilant crowds all over the world. Blues Boy chronicles B. B. King's inspiring journey from his childhood in the Jim Crow South to global stardom. It is a compelling biography about the widely known and celebrated American music figure as well as a beautifully illustrated picture book with themes of family, community, history, kindness, empathy, and justice.

Acclaimed author Alice Faye Duncan makes B.B. King's story both accessible and inspiring for young readers. The text is sometimes uplifting and sometimes heart-wrenching, but always carries emotional depth, much like the music it celebrates. Illustrator and visual artist Carl Joe Williams provides artwork that is rich and distinctive, bringing B.B. King's story to life on every page. Blues Boy will find a place on the shelf with books like Trombone Shorty and Radiant Child. Includes backmatter.