Gary Wright (6) (1943–2023)

Dream Weaver by Gary Wright, another LyricPop children's picture book from Akashic, makes a wonderful book to read to your children or grandchildren.

One thing I am always curious about with these books is how some of the lyrics that have a very adult meaning for me will be handled to make them meaningful for children. In this case the line "help me to forget today's pain." Even when the song was new and I was in high school it had a more mature meaning than the target age for this book. Through illustrations (by Rob Sayegh Jr) the pain of the day is falling off a bike, which helps make this transition well.

I also think that terms like "astral plane" when coupled with the illustration gives a parent the opportunity to talk about stars and space while also adding a word to vocabulary.

I am also a big fan of using these books to broaden children's interest in music beyond just what they may currently hear at home, on the radio, or with their friends.

Reviewed from a copy made available by the publisher via Edelweiss.… (mehr)

I thought this book was very interesting. I love the song "Dream Weaver" and it was nice to see where the idea for the song came from. My interest was piqued with the mention of George Harrison. I am a big George Harrison/Beatles fan and I was curious as to how Gary met George. This book is very extensive in the spiritual journey of Gary Wright, as well as the way George Harrison helped Gary to continue to seek this faith. I would recommend this book to people that are interested in Hare Krishna and the way that a guru helps to teach the path that leads to the divine. In addition, this book discusses the ups and downs that Gary went through in the music business. The music it's self was a spiritual journey for Gary.… (mehr)

Although musically very talented for all intents the author was a one hit wonder (thus the title) who just happened to befriend George Harrison because of their mutual connection over Eastern philosophy and religion. I see a pretty narrow audience for this book of interest to only those people who have a deep love of "rock" history and also for those who want to learn about the Hindu faith with its vast history and its teachings. A lot of name dropping of lesser known but talented musicians along the way.… (mehr)