Day, Nicholas. Nothing: John Cage and 4'33". Chris Raschka, Illus. Neal Porter, 04/2024. [40]pp. Nonfiction. Trade $18.99. 978-0-8234-5409-9. GRADES Kindergarten–3. OUTSTANDING.
An approachable introduction to the experimental composer John Cage, framed around the inaugural performance of his work 4'33". In 1952, musician David Tudor sits at a piano in front of an anticipatory audience and does “nothing” for the next four minutes and thirty-three seconds. Meanwhile, readers are transported back forty years to the birth and upbringing of Cage, who “wrote music like no one had ever told him no” and “wanted people to hear how much sound there is in silence.” Raschka’s watercolor, pencil and ink illustrations are dynamic and complement the unconventional subject matter, occasionally incorporating loopy cursive words and lines from the accessible and conversational text. Cage and Tudor are pale-skinned and pink-cheeked; blotchy portraits of audience members suggest a range of pink and brown faces. Well-curated back matter includes additional context about Cage and his inspiration, photographs, a bibliography, and encouragement to share your own recordings to the 4'33" app released by the John Cage Trust.
Caroline Davis—Alameda County Library