Rebecca Durden Burwell
Neuroscientist turned children's book author/illustrator
Velella Books
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Welcome to my new enterprise, illustrating children's books under my imprint name, Velella Books. I am the Albert D Mead Professor Emerita of Cognitive and Psychological Sciences at Brown University. In my scientific career, I focused on understanding how memory works, specifically how we remember the events of our lives and the places where they happened. Growing up in Mississippi, I loved to read, draw, make things, and spend time poking around in the woods behind our house. Music was always around, and today I am avidly studying jazz guitar.
I originally illustrated "What a Wonderful World", my debut picture book, as a present for my granddaughter. I offer it now as a reminder that the world is a beautiful place and that goodness and beauty are possible among people, even in difficult times.
Introducing my new children's picture book:
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What a Wonderful World
a tribute to Louis Armstrong
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Illustrated by Rebecca Durden Burwell
Lyrics by David George Weiss and Bob Thiele
Published by Velella Books
Preview: What a Wonderful World
Click book cover below
for details or to buy
About Louis Armstrong
Louis Armstrong was an iconic American jazz trumpeter, singer, and bandleader, recognized as one of the most influential figures in jazz history. Born in 1901 in New Orleans, Armstrong revolutionized the genre with his distinctive trumpet playing, gravelly voice, and charismatic stage presence. His influence is seen in the development of swing and the technical brilliance of his improvisational solos that continue to define jazz today.
“What a Wonderful World”, written for Armstrong by George David Weiss and Bob Thiele, was crafted specifically to showcase Armstrong’s personal warmth and optimistic worldview. Recorded August 16, 1967, just four years before his death, the song was intended as an antidote to the social and political upheavals of the late 1960s, offering a message of hope and unity. Over half a century later, the song remains an anthem for peace and optimism.
Armstrong overcame a challenging childhood and persistent obstacles in his adult and professional life to achieve international fame and shape modern jazz; his extraordinary career has made him a lasting symbol of hope and resilience.
The Story of Velella Books
The name, Velella Books, is inspired by the Latin word for "small sail," referencing the remarkable ocean animal, Velella velella. This small blue sea creature is also known as the "by-the-wind sailor", for the miniature sail it uses to drift across the sea. Like its namesake, Velella Books is devoted to exploration, curiosity, and the journey of discovery wherever the winds may lead, and Velella velella reminds us that every story can carry us to new, unexpected shores. Stay tuned for new music themed picture books for children.
