The Good Song

A story about Hawaiian singer Israel Kamakawiwo'ole (Iz) and his beloved medley of "Over the Rainbow" and "What a Wonderful World"

The day Iz was born, on a beautiful Hawaiian island, the world sang him a lullaby. What a good song. But what is the good song? Iz spent his short life listening for it and found it in his heart one stormy night. And the good song rose up and over the rainbow and out to the world to the hearts of listeners everywhere.

Based on the life of beloved Hawaiian singer Israel Kamakawiwo'ole (1959-1997), The Good Songcelebrates the inspiration behind Iz's medley of the classic "Over the Rainbow" and "What a Wonderful World," and features the lyrics of the song.

About the Author

Alexandria Giardino's first picture book, Ode to an Onion, was inspired by the poet Pablo Neruda and was a Junior Library Guild selection. She lives in Northern California, where she teaches writing, practices karate, and rides her mountain bike all over Mount Tam. Her writing has appeared in the Village Voice Literary Supplement, Ms., Marie Claire, and the American Poetry Review, and on air at KQED.

About the Illustrator

Penelope Dullaghan is an illustrator based in Indianapolis.