The Story of Taylor Swift: An Inspiring Biography for Young Readers, by Rachelle Burk

 Publication Sept. 2, 2024

This is a quick, well-writt4en story of Taylor Swift's early years, rise to fame, and impact on the world. While long time fans may not find much new within, it's still a worthwhile read. It's use of graphics and repeated segments of, say, "Jump in the Think Tank" and "Myth-v-Fact" help set it apart from other similar books. While there are no photos, the illustrations are well done and highlight each section nicely. Having been a horse crazy girl, I particularly liked the one of Taylor and her brother riding together through the countryside. The color and graphics work well and as you read you'll notice some words in bold print. They can be found in the glossary at the end, a help to young readers. 

I liked that the book didn't skip past the role Swift's parents played in her success. Let's face it, myths aside, no one really makes it all alone. Swift may have been remarkably talented as a child but without the support of her family, which was willing to pull up roots and leave what sounds like an idyllic home on a Christmas tree farm to move to Nashville, it would have probably been a longer, more difficult climb to the top. I also liked that the book offers thought questions to help young readers connect to the events in Swift's life.. I won't detail them, they're best read in context, but, for example, the acknowledgement that we all make mistakes but we can learn from them and move forward more confidently. Kindness is also emphasized, which I particularly liked. While not an avid Swiftie, I know how often she has faced unkind, even hateful forces, so this emphasis on kindness in the face of unkindness, let's say, is an important lesson readers can take from this book. In other words, the book doesn't stop with relating Taylor Swift's life story but used it to illustrate and guide others. 

Bottom line, there's much to take in here, all worthwhile. Even long-time fans may benefit from the discussion questions interspersed throughout. Readers are encouraged to interact, albeit virtually, with the text, perhaps seeing beyond the surface to how Swift's role can guide them. That makes this book a winner to me. The "Our World" section may focus on Swift's impact on the world, for instance, but give us ideas on how we can emulate her and have a positive effect on the world about us, too. Finally, in addition to the glossary mentioned, there is also a bibliography at the end. My thanks to #CallistoPublishing for giving me an early peek at this look at Swift's life and all it involves. I've become a fan.