New Children’s Book ‘Vincent: Starry Starry Night’ Inspired by Don McLean’s Song ‘Vincent’
Vincent: Starry Starry Night is a new children’s book written by Judith A. Proffer. The book was inspired by Vincent, a song by Don McLean, written as a tribute to Vincent van Gogh.
Starry, starry night
Paint your palette blue and gray
Look out on a summer's day
With eyes that know the darkness in my soul
A long, long time ago lived a shy and fairly quiet boy named Vincent. No one quite understood why, but Vincent saw things differently than other children. He was drawn to the beauty of the world that surrounded him, but he never quite recognized the beauty within himself. Vincent made colorful drawings on his sketchpad to chase away the grayest of feelings. When he grew older and the feelings grew even bigger, Vincent would paint bold canvases, capturing emotions with his mighty brushstrokes.
Lushly illustrated in the spirit of some of Van Gogh's greatest works, Vincent gently fosters empathy, understanding, and connection for those, like Van Gogh, who struggle with mental well-being - crafting a vivid and tender picture to inspire compassion and kindness in the hearts of children of all ages.
Both accessible and hopeful, Vincent encourages kids to embrace their creativity and spark conversation that it's okay to seek help when faced with challenges, all while celebrating Van Gogh’s enduring legacy.
"This book borrows from my song Vincent. At the time I was reading a book about the Dutch painter and was moved to compose a song that paid homage to the artist, his work, and his pain. But really, Judith Proffer hardly needed my song's inspiration since she has a beautiful imagination. This book helps return childhood to its rightful owners." - Don McLean
Don McLean's song “Vincent” poignantly reflects the profound melancholy of Vincent van Gogh, whose life was marked by intense emotional struggles. As the second single released from McLean's American Pie album, "Vincent" reached number one in the UK and was a top 20 hit in the US in 1972. It remains McLean's second most popular song after "American Pie." It's been recorded by Josh Groban, Ellie Goulding, Julio Iglesias, and Jane Olivor.
About the Author:
Judith A. Proffer is the author of several children’s books including Patsy Cline's Walkin' After Midnight, Broadway Baby, Bondi & Poppy Help Heal the Planet (Moonbeam Spirit Award Recipient for Preservation and Stewardship) and When We Stayed Home.
Her latest book Vincent: Starry Starry Night will be released on October 1, 2024, published by Meteor 17 Books. It is available for sale on Amazon.