Stalebread Charlie and the Razzy Dazzy Spasm Band

Based on a true story, this book is set in 1895. Stalebread Charlie and his friend Warm Gravy are homeless boys in New Orleans. Stalebread has heard people say that music feeds the soul, and he wonders if it could feed the body as well. He and his friends create a band with instruments made out of junk – a fiddle from a cigar box, a kazoo from a comb – and earn enough change from playing on the street to buy food that indeed feeds their bodies and souls.

This inspiring story by Michael Mahin and illustrator Don Tate includes notes about the real Stalebread and research behind the book, in addition to a make-your-own-instrument activity. A perfect introduction to music and history of New Orleans, this story illustrates how kids lived in various situations – much like they do now. Music has the power to lift the spirits of all!