This musical picture book invites children to discover the magical, musical world imagined by some of the most influential songwriters in French-speaking Canada over the past century: Félix Leclerc, Gilles Vigneault, Claude Léveillée, Lionel Daunais, Alan Mills, Joseph Beaulie, and La Bolduc. This festive collection of clever, joyful songs by several well-known performers stands out as living proof of the French culture that is so vibrant today in the heart of the North American continent. In addition to the ten recordings on the CD (or as digital downloads) and fanciful illustrations that accompany the lyrics in the book, songwriter biographies and an activity guide for teachers are also included.
About the Author
Singer-songwriter and poet of international fame, Felix Leclerc (1914-1988) is considered the father of Quebec song. He has seen his work crowned by numerous awards including the Charles Cros Academy Award, the Prix Calixa-Lavallée, and the Prix Denise-Pelletier. The Prix Félix (Quebec equivalent to the Grammys), given to Quebec singers, is named in his honor. As a member of the Canadian Author / Songwriters Hall of Fame, Gilles Vigneault is hailed as one of Canada’s most influential music figures of the 20th century, especially as a champion Québécois folksinger. He has received numerous distinctions including the “Grand prix du disque et de l’Académie Charles-Cros” in France and the “Médaille Vermeil” offered by the City of Paris. Marie Lafrance is one of Québec’s best-known illustrators, thanks to her participation in several children’s books, including Le grand voyage, La fée des bonbons, and La Diablesse and the Baby, for which she was a finalist of the Governor General’s Literary Award.
