This fascinating book introduces readers to the life and legacy of Duke Ellington, a Black composer and band leader whose artistic and cultural contributions expanded and illuminated the collective conversation on race. The book includes a table of contents, a Consider This special feature, a biographical timeline, informative sidebars, quiz questions, a glossary, additional resources, and an index. This Focus Readers series is at the Navigator level, aligned to reading levels of grades 3-5 and interest levels of grades 4-7.

Chyina Powell is a freelance writer and editor. She is the founder of both Powell Editorial and the Women of Color Writers’ Circle and can often be found with a cup of tea and a book in her hand.