Book Review: Skit-Scat Raggedy Cat: Ella Fitzgerald by Roxane Orgill

Looking for your next read? Check out Skit-Scat Raggedy Cat: Ella Fitzgerald by Roxane Orgill, reviewed by Fulco Library staff, Amber C.

A swinging bio of young Ella Fitzgerald, who pushed through the toughest of times to become one of America’s most beloved jazz singers.
Take a trip back to the 1930s and meet a young aspiring, singer/dancer: Ella Fitzgerald. We are introduced to Ella doing the one of the things she loved best: singing. Although Ella is not the prettiest or richest girl around, she makes up for it with her honey smooth voice and Lindy-Hoppin’ dancing feet. She danced her way from Yonkers, NY all the way to Harlem – the bustling epicenter of, what we came to know as, the Harlem Renaissance. However, the good times can’t last forever and everything changes in an instant for Ella when her mom suddenly passes away. Staying with a family member, she has to say goodbye to her friends, school, and dancing jobs in rapid succession. 

Losing so much so soon, Ella began to act out and eventually got in trouble and was sent to a school for wayward children. The conditions at the school were appalling and treatment was harsh; fed up, Ella ran away to Harlem to make her own way. She danced on corners and sang for passersby’s, hoping they tossed a few cents her way. One day, her luck changed for the better: amateur night at the Apollo Theater. After that, her star continued to rise and she caught the eye of Chick Webb, band leader of the Chick Webb band. Her talent was undeniable and she was invited to be the vocalist of the band. And the rest is, history.

This book is great snapshot of the time period: from the lingo, songs, and a view of what money was worth, you feel as if you’ve taken a step back into time of the 1930s. Though this is a children’s book, aimed for readers 5-9, everyone can learn something about the famed jazz singer; from her early life to her beginnings in the music industry, there’s something to be learned for everyone.

Check out Skit-Scat Raggedy Cat from your branch's shelves with your library card today!

Skit-scat Raggedy Cat

Skit-scat Raggedy Cat

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This post is for educational purposes and the contents are not endorsed by the Fulton County Library System or Fulton County Government.