Ragtime Tumpie

by Alan Schroeder, Bernie Fuchs (Illustrator)

juvenile literature, biography, Josephine Baker

Genres: Picture Books, Biography, Music, African American, Childrens, Cultural, Realistic Fiction

Hardcover

First published December 31, 1989

Reviews

[Abby Young · Rating 4 out of 5]

I chose this book because I read a book about Josephine Baker, and this book is also about her, so I wanted to see how the two books compared. Both books tell the same tale about her, although in various ways, but they all depict the same thing. She was a poor little girl who grew up loving to dance. Everyone enjoyed watching her perform, and she went on to make a profession out of it. She was such a good dancer that she was paid for it even as a child, but it wasn't easy for her. Her father abandoned her when she was a small child, and she was also poor, yet her spirit was unaffected. Regardless of her circumstances, she maintained an optimistic attitude. Both books were enjoyable, but I believe Jazz Age Josephine was written better. This book was more historical and informative than Josephine's Jazz Age, but Jazz Age was a lot more interesting and entertaining.

[Ms. B · Rating 3 out of 5]

Based on the childhood of 1900s dancer and celebrity Josephine Baker. Growing up in St. Louis, known as Tumpie, we learn about a girl who loved dancing, ragtime music and entertaining others. From humble beginnings, it's amazing she became the star that she did.

[Karah · Rating 5 out of 5]

A childhood favorite. My mom bought this to steer me from the bleached fare I read during childhood. "Nothing black?" so she bought me this. I haven't seen my copy in some years. Let me find it eventually.

[Jessica · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this book that was based on a real person, Josephine Baker. She danced and eventually became a French citizen. She worked for the Resestance and won medals for her bravery. Very interesting story about Ragtime/Jazz.

[Simon Sweetman · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute wee book - loosely based on Josephine Baker's childhood; beautifully painted illustrations. Read it with your child.

[Di · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nostalgic illustrations with a pull. Introduces children to Josephine Baker with a relatable charm.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ages 6 and a up. A snapshot of the young girl living in poverty in turn-of-the-century St. Louis who had big dreams of performing and grew up to be Josephine Baker.

[Amy Fieldhouse · Rating 4 out of 5]

Summary:
Ragtime Tumpie retells the vivacious historical story of young Josephine Baker and her tendency to dance the streets of St. Louis. Tumpie danced everywhere and delighted when she won her first silver dollar in a dance competition. From that moment on she said she couldn’t stop dancing and eventually made her dreams come true. The paintings done by Bernie Fuchs provide a vibrant and rhythmic setting for Tumpie’s tale. The artist used vivid colors and captures their movement in the perfect way, truly enhancing the wonderful story of Tumpie and her ragtime roots.

Response:
Ragtime Tumpie has been awarded 3.8 stars on Goodreads and although it is reasonable I would award it 4 stars. This story is so full of life, color, music and rhythm. Tumpie provides a unique peek into the past for modern day readers to experience different cultures and times in our past. The phrase that touched me the most was at the end after she won the dance competition, holding the silver dollar in her hand she said, “I’ll never stop dancin’ now!” All Tumpie ever wanted to do was dance and she always danced for free everywhere she went. So once she got her first taste of a paid performance, her mind was made up, she would fulfill her dream.

Classroom Connection:
This story could tie into a history lesson because the story is set in the early 1900s. Ragtime Tumpie could also bring out a musical aspect in the classroom. Students can make their own Ragtime dances or musical instruments.

610L
Grade Level Equivalent: 3.9
Guided Reading Level: N
26 pages

[Kelli Ryne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This particular story highlights the childhood of Josephine Baker, but more strongly paints the picture of the Ragtime era. Ragtime is such a great metaphor for the 20th century in the United States due to its origin and eventual embrace by many sub-cultures and groups. It gave way to many musical genres and dance moves that can be studies through music, film, and literature. I would use this book to begin a discussion of the early 20th century, the jazz-age and the social changes taking place. Tumpie's enthusiasm, hope and attitude illustrates the feelings of this time and sets the stage for the modern century.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would use this picture book as a discussion starter when teaching about culture during the turn of the century. There are beautiful pictures to go along with the story of Josephine Baker and the importance of music and dance in the early 20th century. The author's note at the end is a great follow-up to the book.

[Mckinley · Rating 4 out of 5]

fun loving good time dancing

[Savannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good book that touches on history. Takes place in 1915 and tells the story of young Tumpie, famously knows as Josephine Baker. Great for Black History Month.

[MJ]

odc this copy