A stunning, rhythmic picture book biography of African American composer Scott Joplin, whose ragtime music paved the way for jazz . There was something special about Scott Joplin... This quiet kid could make a piano laugh out loud. Scott, the son of a man who had been enslaved, became a king--the King of Ragtime. This celebration of Scott Joplin, whose ragtime compositions paved the way for jazz, will captivate audiences and put a beat in their step, and the kaleidoscope-like illustrations will draw young readers in again and again. About author(s): Stephen Costanza has illustrated and written several books for children, including three about music, Mozart Finds a Melody , Vivaldi and the Invisible Orchestra , and King of Ragtime . He studied music and composition, and for a time played piano professionally, performing both ragtime and classical music. He lives on a small island in Maine. Visit him at StephenCostanza.com.