Janis Joplin: Rise Up Singing

Angel, A. (2010). Janis Joplin; Rise up singing. New York, NY: Amulet. In this amazing biography of Janis Joplin the reader is introduced not only to Janis Joplin the rocker but Janis Joplin the insecure young woman from Texas.  As a young girl growing up in 1950's Port Arthur, Texas Janis was plagued by insecurities and a feeling that she never fit in.  Whether it be her loud laugh or acne that speckled her face Janis was different from all the other girls.  This lead to Janis Joplin hanging out with older boys and experimenting with alcohol and drugs. A relationship that eventually caused her untimely death by accidental overdose.  It also led to a love affair with the blues that would catapult Janis to super stardom. This biography presents the whole picture of a singer who could capture an entire audience and still feel utterly alone.  What makes it even better is the author's use of introductions and quotes from primary sources that lived through the experiences with Janis Joplin.  Also to be found in this biography are an extensive bibliography and timeline.  Pictures of Janis and the singers and people who shaped her life make this a good option for middle school and high school teachers looking to get students introduced and interested in biographies.