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Description
Set in the late 1800s and early 1900s, this biography follows Scott Joplin, a talented Black musician from Texas who became known as the "King of Ragtime." Joplin composed some of the most beloved ragtime pieces ever written, including "The Maple Leaf Rag," and dreamed of gaining respect for ragtime as a serious art form. Despite his groundbreaking contributions to American music, recognition for his work came too late, and Joplin spent much of his life struggling for the acceptance he deserved.
Quick Summary
Ever wonder where ragtime got its sparkle? Raggin' tells the story of Scott Joplin, a Texas kid who grew up hearing the syncopated beats that would one day shake the world. The book follows his rise from small-town piano player to the composer of "The Maple Leaf Rag," and it shows how he pushed to have ragtime taken seriously as an art form, even when the odds were stacked against him. It's a fast, punchy read at just over 6,000 words, which makes it a great pick for reluctant readers or anyone who wants a meaty story without a huge time commitment, and the language feels like a chatty friend sharing a bit of history. While the story touches on the racism Joplin faced, it keeps things age-appropriate, so parents can feel comfortable letting their kids explore this slice of American music history. If you enjoy this one, you might also check out the "Who Was?" biography on Louis Armstrong for another dose of musical adventure.