MUSIC AND MESSAGE MELDS TOGETHER
ASHTI MEETS BIRDMAN AL, by Carmen Rubin
FOREWORD, by 7-time Grammy award winning vocalist, Mr. Al Jarreau
Ashti Meets Birdman Al is a lyrical, heart-warming story that floats on the pages like a
song. Children jam to Birdman Al’s educating bee-bop. Parents and children will enjoy
this interactive, colorful book!
A day at the park guides Ashti and her mother to an elderly man, Birdman Al (inspired
by Al Jarreau), who is scatting with the birds he meets every morning. His concern for
preserving Jazz and his former elementary school’s music program, lead Ashti to her “big
idea”. It ends with an unexpected turn of events.
Ashti Meets Birdman Al is compatible with school-based character and music
education. The story creatively aligns with such traits as, initiative, compassion, respect,
responsibility, and perseverance. Children learn the history of instruments and Jazz
artists, such as, Billie Holiday, Thelonius Monk, Dizzie Gillespie, Cab Calloway, and
more!
PEPPERMINT MESSAGE: In the book, Author, Carmen Rubin, has incorporated
a game, “Find the Peppermints”. The Peppermints are a symbol to remind kids to
show love. The idea is inspired by the author’s grandfather, who, even today, passes
out peppermints, to show love to those that are unloved. His Peppermint Candy Club
encourages everyone to display love to people, animals, and the earth!
FEATURES:
-It is the 1st story book in the App store that showcases influential Jazz artists,
instruments, and 7-year old Ashti Freeborn – an animated character that educates children
about serving others in their communities, the nation, and world!
-Interactive links where children can play the “Find the Peppermint” game, scat along,
listen to the sounds of various instruments and humorous bird calls.
-Whimsical animations sure to engage readers and listeners!
-Storybook app narrated by the sultry voice of author/singer, Carmen Rubin. Ashti
voice overs by Brielle Fitzpatrick, Bird voice overs by Ernest L. Jackson. Illustrations/
Graphics by Simon Stewart and Robert Muhammad of Spitfire Graphics. Jazz artists
illustrations by Joshua Fitzpatrick, 11 years old.
-Illustrated using digital inks and acrylics that pop off the screen taking full advantage of
the iPad resolution.