Dave Matthews has spent decades writing songs, and now he has a children’s book to his credit.
The GRAMMY Award-winning musician has teamed with author Clete Barrett Smith on “If We Were Giants.” The book is described as a fantasy about a girl who must summon the courage to face her mistakes before she can help save her community from a threat.
“Having spent my childhood exploring the forests of Virginia and time as an adult with the San people of South Africa, I really respect a life balanced with nature,” Matthews said in a statement. “I’m thrilled to be working with Clete and Disney Publishing to tell a story that focuses on the importance of the environment.”
Other themes of “If We Were Giants” include overcoming loss and embracing community. Here’s the official synopsis:
“Kirra, a curious, agile, and outgoing girl, lives in an idyllic community hidden inside a dormant volcano. She and her father are the only two people allowed to venture beyond its walls. Kirra is in training to become a Storyteller like him, and together they travel from village to village spreading fearsome tales designed to keep outsiders away from their secret nest. One day, after hearing rumors of strangers called the “Takers,” Kirra leaves the volcano by herself, hoping to discover her own story. But she unknowingly leads the Takers back to her doorstep, and they rob her of everything she has ever held dear. A devastated Kirra is found by a boy named Luwan and adopted into his family, which lives among others high in the trees of a dense forest. Now quiet and withdrawn, Kirra hides her dark past from everyone and never wants to leave the safety of her tree dwelling. Luwan, on the other hand, loves to explore. One day it leads to trouble: He is captured while spying on a group of strangers. The Takers have returned. To save the Tree Folk, Kirra must face her inner demons and summon all her storytelling to weave the most important tale of her life.”
The book is accented with a full-color insert of concept artwork and is geared toward 8 to 12-year-olds. “If We Were Giants” will be available March 3rd.
The Dave Matthews Band is also taking its concern for the environment on tour this summer. Fans who buy tickets have the option to donate $2 that will go towards the goal of planting 1 million trees.
The tour kicks off June 16th in Uncasville, CT and ends September 23rd in Southaven, MS. Tickets are on sale now.
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