Hello, I'm Johnny Cash

by G. Neri, A.G. Ford (Illustrations)

A stirring look at the early life of Johnny Cash, from his harsh but music-filled childhood to the first flush of stardom.

There’s never been anyone like music legend Johnny Cash. His deep voice is instantly recognizable, and his heartfelt songs resonate with listeners of all ages and backgrounds. G. Neri captures Johnny’s story in beautiful free verse, portraying an ordinary boy with an extraordinary talent who grew up in extreme poverty, faced incredible challenges, and ultimately found his calling by always being true to the gift of his voice. A. G. Ford’s luscious paintings of the dramatic southern landscape of Johnny Cash’s childhood illuminate this portrait of a legend, taking us from his humble beginnings to his enormous success on the world stage.

Genres: Biography, Picture Books, Music, Nonfiction, Poetry, Childrens, Juvenile

40 pages, Hardcover

First published September 23, 2014

About the author

G. Neri is the Coretta Scott King honor-winning author of Yummy: the Last Days of a Southside Shorty and the recipient of the Lee Bennett Hopkins Promising Poet Award for his free-verse novella, Chess Rumble. His books have been translated into multiple languages in over 25 countries. They include the novels Tru & Nelle, A Christmas Tale, Ghetto Cowboy, Knockout Games, Surf Mules, and two free-verse picture book bios, When Paul Met Artie and Hello, I'm Johnny Cash. In 2017, he was awarded a National Science Foundation grant that sent him to Antarctica.

Prior to becoming a writer, Neri was a filmmaker, an animator/illustrator, a digital media producer, and a founding member of The Truth anti-smoking campaign. Neri currently writes full-time and lives on the Gulf Coast of Florida with his wife and daughter. You can find him online at www.gneri.com.

Reviews

[Rod Brown · Rating 3 out of 5]

A nice little hagiography about about the childhood and early career of Johnny Cash. The stories will be familiar to Cash's fans (yes, I have more than 1500 tracks in my iTunes and a dozen or so books I've read), but the events are told and illustrated well.

It's a nice introduction to the Man in Black for children, but it is pretty wordy, so some younger ones might get restless listening to it being read aloud.

[Gary Anderson · Rating 3 out of 5]

G. Neri’s thug-life books for young readers would seem to make him the perfect chronicler of Johnny Cash, the original country music outlaw. Neri’s new picture book Hello, I’m Johnny Cash, unfortunately, is a sanitized version of Cash’s complicated life. The childhood poverty is here, along with the death of Cash’s brother and his father’s meanness, but they are almost lost in the narrative’s rosy follow-your-dreams message. The poems are fine and the pictures are fine, but the instructive lessons for readers that could come from Cash’s struggles with addiction and religion, as well as his work on behalf of the downtrodden, seem like missed opportunities. Hello, I’m Johnny Cash will be a serviceable picture book for students interested in Cash or country music, or for those assigned to read about a “famous person,” but it falls short of engaging readers in the complexity of Johnny Cash.

[Amanda up North · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartfelt, informative, and beautifully illustrated biographical picture book.
Each large, full page illustration is matched by a full page of free verse columns.
The prose and paintings convey a deep, rich honesty much like Johnny Cash's voice.

I'm not sure who the target audience is.
May not be for very young children.
(Gr 3–5 according to School Library Journal)
I'd say for all ages above that.
I think a picture book works well telling his story because Johnny's childhood was so formative to his music and who he was.

The format reminded me of another music- biography picture book I read, When Paul Met Artie, and I discovered just now that it's by the same author.
Great books.
Highly recommend.

"Johnny Cash was one of the great voices of twentieth-century America. To many he was America: salt to the earth, honest, kind to a fault, funny as heck, deeply religious, and deeply flawed. His rags-to-riches story is the essence of the American Dream, filled with promise, failure, and redemption.
.. The gift of his voice and the love he spread through his singing will live forever."

[Roger Clarke · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a big fan of classic rock, and more specifically, Johnny Cash himself. This was a great way to introduce children to an American legend in the rock and roll scene. The story tells of his long, roller coaster journey of a life that Mr. Cash went through, for better or for worse. The book touches on some of his hardships during his life but keeps it appropriate for children. The illustrations are some of the best work I have seen in a picture book, with the aesthetics truly feeling like you get to see Johnny in all of these different events during his life. The word choice is very good too and keep readers wanting to see how the author will tell the next part of Johnny life with some clever word play. I would hope this could spark children's interest in American historical figures, especially in the classic rock and roll scene.

[Holly Mueller · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the illustrations by A.G. Ford in this biography of Johnny Cash told in free verse. I grew up listening to Cash's music since my dad was a big fan. Be sure to read Gary Anderson's review (https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...) - he brought up a lot of good points. I realize it's a book for children, however, and the author's note touches on some of the points Anderson thought was missing. Cash had a complicated life, and his music captured the pain and joy his life encapsulated. I'm glad kids can be introduced to such a gifted musician through this book.

[Edward Sullivan · Rating 5 out of 5]

An exceptionally well-written and handsomely illustrated introduction to the music legend chronicling his life from childhood to the beginning of his recording career. Neri draws much of his text from Cash's own words. Lots of good end matter offers additional information on Cash's later years and career highlights. I'm surprised to not see Anne Neimark's biography Up Close: Johnny Cash listed in the bibliography.

[Patricia N. McLaughlin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fascinating story about “J. R., the human radio,” who grew up to be Johnny Cash, told in lyrical free verse and illustrated with evocative artwork that portrays the remarkable life of The Man in Black. Quite text heavy, this story is for the most experienced readers—or those young geniuses who naturally take to words like Cash took to music. Endnotes include a bio of Cash, a timeline of historical events that shaped his life, a discography, and a bibliography for further study.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has great illustrations that tells the story of Johnny Cash. The story seems to be written in the same manner that one would write a song.
This story gives an account of the path of Johnny Cash's life from childhood through his experiences of being a musician. This is a very informative book on the time frame and life of Johnny Cash in a rating that would fit the younger reader.

[Nathan Lowry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a fan of johnny cash's music so naturally I enjoyed this book. the illustrations are great and was a good example of a biography and free verse poetry mixed together. I learned that one of his more popular songs " a boy named sue" was written by the poet shel silverstein, how cool!

[A.L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an absolutely stellar book. Beautiful. Lyrical. Well-researched. Moving. If you listen to Johnny Cash at home while your kids are around (like I do) then this is the perfect introduction to share with them. Even if you don't have kids, if you just like Johnny Cash, read this book.

[Amanda Rychtarik · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVE Johnny Cash & this is a great little biography!! I learned some really cool facts about him. The illustrations are fantastic!!

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Written in free verse that sprawls across the pages and tugs at readers' ears and hearts just as its subject once did, this biography of country music singer Johnny Cash pays tribute to an extraordinary man. The full-page oil illustrations that accompany each of the different sections in the book are a revelation themselves, showing slices of life and revealing long-forgotten periods of time during which the singer grew up. Readers learn about his early years in rural Arkansas and the importance of the church and religious songs to the formation of J.R. as well as the unexpected death of his beloved older brother. After a stint in the military and a door-to-door salesman job, Johnny caught a couple of lucky breaks and he was on his way. The author makes it clear that music was the one constant in Cash's life, allowing him to express his sorrows as well as his great joys. Since the biography stops just as stardom beckons, covering his next 40 years in a few lines, readers may be curious to find out more about where his music led him. Back matter includes additional information about this great singer, the historical events through which he lived, and a list of music to explore. It would have been marvelous to have a CD and a photograph of the real Man in Black included. Ah, well! My father would have loved this book almost as much as he loved the man and his music. I can still remember him singing "Ring of Fire" along with me when I was much younger. What a complicated, fascinating singer Cash was! It's hard to capture someone that complex, but this book does so wonderfully while also setting Cash's story within the appropriate historical context of the events that were swirling around him.

[Alyson (Kid Lit Frenzy) · Rating 4 out of 5]

It would seem to me that writing a picture book biography for children on such a complicated individual as Johnny Cash would be hard. One question comes up: Do you sanitize it or not? Neri does a remarkable job at portraying more of the life leading up to Cash's musical career than the music career itself. Certain parts of Cash's life are highlighted in the author's note at the end and with the additional resources. Regardless of how you feel about how much do you share in a book for young readers, Neri does a nice job of introducing children to the music legend of Johnny Cash. The free verse also seemed to be a good choice of writing style for the book.

[Michele Knott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really appreciate this biography. While it concentrated on the positives of Johnny Cash's life and his early life leading up to his fame, it also did bring up some of the darker sides. I appreciate they were at least mentioned but not focused on in this biography written for kids.
The writing, done in free verse, was eloquent and the illustrations eye-catching.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Free-verse picture book biography about Johnny Cash. Chronicles his childhood, musical influences, and tumultuous personal life. It was clear early on in his life that music was his passion and ultimately his salvation, along with June Carter. Fans of Johnny Cash will love this book and will especially appreciate that all the poem titles are taken from his song titles.

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the free verse poems to tell the story of Johnny Cash's life, though I feel like a lot was left out -- especially when you take into account that June Carter was only mentioned here in passing.

[Christi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read this one out loud to my 12 year old daughter (we raised her to appreciate all the greats, Johnny Cash included). We both loved it--the words were lyrical and the illustrations beautiful.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully written and illustrated child-appropriate biography of Johnny Cash! This book's beauty and simplicity brought tears to my eyes. If you're a fan and you have kids, this is a must read.

[Amanda B · Rating 5 out of 5]

A-MAZ-ing.

[Wafa]

[Baylor Herring · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hello, I’m Johnny Cash G. Neri
Summary: Hello, I’m Johnny Cash, written by G. Neri, is a beautifully free verse book about the life of Johnny Cash, a very well-known voice of the twentieth century. This book is a view of the early life of Johnny Cash, before his fame, as well as his rising moments. His story is filled with hard moments, as well as life fulfilling ones. Johnny Cash is one of a kind. Many don’t know his story, or his life before his rising fame, but this book portrays this story in a way that no one can compare. From extreme poverty and challenges, Cash rose above the odds and found his passion: his voice. Learn more about Johnny Cash and where he came from in this beautiful story.
Analysis: This book is such a unique piece of literature. I love how different and bold it is. The author and illustrator definitely took a risk with this book, but they were extremely successful. It was a beautiful piece of work that tugs at your heart. I would definitely recommend this book to older readers, around the middle school age.
How I could use this: This book is definitely a book I will keep in mind, but it may be difficult to implement into my classroom. With such a young audience, I don’t think my students would be very interested in this type of book. It has a lot of information and it is something that would be very challenging for such a young reader (first grade).

[Destiny Leskovac · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hello, I’m Johnny Cash is an inspiring story about how a young boy worked hard to build himself up from nothing to one of the most well-known musicians in the world. This well-written biography offers an in-depth look at what life was like for Johnny’s struggling family and how Johnny kept his faith through it all. It also shows how, when he struck it big as a singer, Johnny remained humble and remembered where he came from. Children will love the colorful images that depict Johnny’s life. This story is fantastic and an inspiration to all that shows how hard work and faith can change your life.

[Michael Polder · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got to be honest, I chose this book because I wanted to read it. I did read it aloud to my seven year old daughter, and it was like reading a movie script. I know Johnny Cash's music but did not know much about his life before it. First, I thought the pictures were great, almost like photographs. Great colors used by the illustrator, grabs your attention explaining the story on the other side of the page. My seven year old would say it was a little long, but I thought it was just right. Tremendous amount of information about Mr. Cash in such great detail. I could make this a lot more than one paragraph, but I'll just end it with I enjoyed this book from cover to cover!

[Haley Welker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was phenomenal! It tells the great story of Johnny Cash's life in a children's perspective. The illustrations were great, they look as if they have been painted. They use realism as they create a world that is possible. This book also uses the lyrics from his songs as titles for the pages and I found that really cool. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking to learn more about Johnny Cash, especially children. Although the book is long it is worth the read! I would say this is geared more towards upper elementary/middle school readers. Awesome book!

[Lynn Davidson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This beautifully illustrated book holds the well-told story about J.R. Cash, who became Johnny Cash, the famous musician. His story began with poverty and hard work, includes significant loss in his life, tells us about his gift from God - his singing voice. That took him from wishing and dreaming to success and fame.
It's a wonderfully told story that touches the heart.

[Colleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is not just a book it is a work of concept art. Oversized but not quite the size of a record folio, this book tells Johnny Cash's life story in two page spreads that are titled with actual Johnny Cash song titles and laid out like the liner notes of a record. It is a loving tribute and every fan of Johnny Cash should check it out but also those who want to read a work of art.

[Jessica Leake · Rating 2 out of 5]

I did not find this book very interesting. It was a children book based on the life of Johnny Cash. I am more interested in colorful and children related books. The story line of the book was interesting, but it just was not a book for me.

[Marissa Kiddey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although this book seemed to bounce chronologically a little, it dragged when he was young and then rushed as he got older. The information and historical accuracy in it was interesting. The illustrations paired with the story well. I would use this book in my future classroom.

[Miss Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

An elementary level picture book biography of musician Johnny Cash. I liked the way this was presented in one page snippets of his life. Each page focuses on a certain segment and I loved the focus on his roots as a young kid.

[Phobean · Rating 5 out of 5]

Since reading this book, I literally can't stop listening to Johnny Cash, who I only had a passing knowledge of previously. It's been DAYS. You've done your work well, G. Neri. And those illustrations! Man, beautiful.