Trombone Shorty

2016 Coretta Scott King Award for Illustrators

Hailing from the Tremé neighborhood in New Orleans, Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews got his nickname by wielding a trombone twice as long as he was high. A prodigy, he was leading his own band by age six, and today this Grammy-nominated artist headlines the legendary New Orleans Jazz Fest.

Along with esteemed illustrator Bryan Collier, Andrews has created a lively picture book autobiography about how he followed his dream of becoming a musician, despite the odds, until he reached international stardom. Trombone Shorty is a celebration of the rich cultural history of New Orleans and the power of music.

"Collier’s vibrant mixed-media illustrations ably complement the text with a skillful melding of paint and photo collage that underscore the “gumbo” of street sounds and musical styles that influence Andrews’ works." The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

"Read this one aloud to capture the sounds and sights of Trombone Shorty’s New Orleans." The Horn Book Magazine

"Sharp panels of color and image, perspective that dips and soars, and layers of mixed-media collage unite to feel like renditions of brass band music itself." Amina Chaudhri, Booklist

"If a fairy tale were set in New Orleans, this is how it would read." Publishers Weekly (Starred Review)

"This well-told and exquisitely illustrated story of a musician with a steep career trajectory will inspire young readers to pursue their passions, despite the challenges." Kirkus Reviews (Starred Review)

Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews is an internationally renowned trombone and trumpet player who leads his band Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue. He lives in New Orleans.

Bryan Collier is an acclaimed illustrator who has won three Caldecott Honors and five Coretta Scott King Awards. He lives in Upstate New York.