Both Sides Now, by Lydia Corry

 Publication May 19, 2026

It's rather amazing and quite impressive to see Joni Mitchell still creating headlines and performing today. This book takes us back to her beginnings, however, which had their own share of hurdles to cope with. As a long time fan, I was relatively aware of the insights shared here for young readers but it was still a fun read. Born in Canada, she didn't grow up in the spotlight and it is probably safe to say her family couldn't have predicted her fame and worldwide influence. I mean, even though she didn't physically attend Woodstock, her song captured that historic event wonderfully and is still widely heard today. Both Sides Now remains one of my favorite songs, too. Can you imagine the images that must flash through her head when she performs it? It must surely ring differently to her now than it did so many years ago. Not too bad for a young girl who faced down polio as a child.

The graphic illustrations are colorful and capture moments well in a style that reflects Mitchell's own artistry. I have to admit to going online to check out some of her artwork as I read, which I'd suggest would be of interest to those with little awareness of her artistry and sense of style. What she became started in her early days. It was fun to imagine her as a child Influences abounded, human and nature, and even as a she didn't shy away from "doing her own thing" as it might have been called by her generation. Aimed at early elementary readers, this book should also hold the interest of us no longer young. 

Bottom line, I'm trying not to give away too much as those just meeting her deserve to get to know on their own but will say there's a sort of whimsical feel at times that matches the  artwork and colorful feel of her story. Was it a happy, carefree life? Far from it. But, it shaped her, much to our own benefit. My thanks to #MacmillanChildren'sPublishingGroup - #GodwinBooks for this early peek at this lovely overview of the early days of a woman who still earns headlines and media attention today. Music and art are universal and I'm so glad Joni persevered and gave us all a piece of her heart by sharing her multiple talents.