Birth of the Cool: How Jazz Great Miles Davis Found His Sound

This biography follows Miles Davis from childhood into his early career as a jazz musician. As a young person, he hears music everywhere and searches for a sound that is distinctly his own. The account traces his movement from East St. Louis and rural Arkansas to Juilliard, New York City jazz clubs, and the Newport Jazz Festival. Free verse and pastel illustrations depict his development and later work alongside other jazz musicians.