'Piano Man' sings a dirge

Goodnight, My Angel: A Lullabye

by Billy Joel, Illustrated by Yvonne Gilbert

Don't get me wrong, I love Billy Joel. He was an essential part of my own childhood. But, man, this book -- based on the 1993 song -- depressed me:

The water's dark,
and deep inside
this ancient heart
you'll always be a part of me

If you're a Dad who's divorcing or dying, this is your book. Written while Joel's marriage collapsed to reassure daughter Alexa, it's a somber reflection on separation and loss. Trouble is, it's too sad to be soothing, too maudlin to truly move me.

The highlight: Gilbert's muted hues and lush, fanciful dreamscapes depicting a young father as he tucks his little girl into bed. Look for Dad's face in the moon watching over her. Heartbreaking.

Note: Comes with music CD

Rating: *\*\

Comments

[brettdl]

First time I read/sang this to our son, Seth, I nearly choked on how depressing the words were.