The Jazz Man
| Company type | Children's book |
|---|---|
| Industry | Publishing |
| Founded | 1966 |
| Founder | Mary Hays Weik (author), Ann Grifalconi (illustrator) |
| Products | Children's literature |
The Jazz Man is a children's story authored by Mary Hays Weik with illustrations by her daughter Ann Grifalconi. Initially published in 1966 by Atheneum Books, the book earned a Newbery Honor the following year. A subsequent edition was issued in 1993 through Aladdin Books. This title has also been made available internationally, including versions released in Germany and South Africa.
Plot summary
The narrative centers on Zeke, a nine-year-old boy residing with his parents in a Harlem brownstone. Having relocated from the South, Zeke faces challenges adapting to his new environment while managing a physical disability. Frequently absent from school, he spends much time observing neighbors from his apartment window. His focus is drawn to a recently arrived tenant known as the "Jazz Man," a pianist whose melodies resonate throughout the building.
The Jazz Man’s music brings comfort to Zeke’s household, alleviating his mother’s fatigue and easing his father’s concerns about unemployment. Domestic tensions escalate, marked by disputes over money and his mother’s increasing weariness, culminating in her departure. This leaves Zeke and his father to manage alone, with his father’s neglect intensifying Zeke’s sense of loneliness.
Zeke becomes aware that the Jazz Man has vanished until one night he dreams of encountering him performing at a vibrant gathering. Upon waking, he hears the music alongside both parents, recognizing that the dream instills hope amidst their difficulties.
Character List
Zeke – A nine-year-old Harlem resident with one leg shorter than the other, who prefers listening to the Jazz Man rather than attending school.
Zeke's Mother – Works long hours and often returns home exhausted; she expresses joy through dancing.
Zeke's Father – Currently unemployed.
Tony – An Italian trumpet player who collaborates with the Jazz Man.
Ernie – An African American saxophonist who occasionally joins the Jazz Man’s performances.
Manuel – Drummer and companion of the Jazz Man.
Mrs. Dowdy – Neighbor of Zeke, living in a well-maintained apartment across the courtyard.
Lispie – A girl described as intellectually challenged, residing across the street in an apartment with crooked green blinds.
Old Bill – Lives opposite Zeke in a deteriorated apartment; known for heavy drinking and hostility toward onlookers.
Critical reception
The Jazz Man was met with predominantly favorable critiques, with Ann Grifalconi’s woodcut artwork receiving particular praise. The book was selected as one of The New York Times Best Illustrated Children's Books of 1966. Reviewers commended its genuine depiction of urban life and emotional resonance. Binnie Tate Wilkin remarked on the author’s ability to evoke city atmosphere and harsher realities through storytelling techniques. Zena Sutherland emphasized its truthful portrayal of challenges faced within inner-city communities. Conversely, some reviews, including those from Kirkus Reviews, suggested that its impact might be more significant among children from urban areas similar to Harlem or Watts rather than suburban audiences less familiar with such experiences.