Sins in Blue by Brian Kaufman

A truly refreshing novel that will spark conversations.

Kennedy Barnes is nothing if not determined. So when the young man ‘discovers’ an all but unknown blues artist who may actually be the father of rock and roll, Kennedy leaves home in search of the musician. Traveling from Pittsburgh to Colorado with little more than a change of clothes, Kennedy is certain he will achieve fame as a talent manager once he signs the talented Willie Johnson. But Willie is not what Kennedy is expecting. Rather than a soulful musician, Willie is an old, worn-out white guy working laundry in a motel. Undeterred, Kennedy convinces the old man to give fame one last shot. The two form an unlikely friendship that transcends decades, stereotypes, and past sins.

Brian Kaufman has crafted a truly refreshing novel that will spark conversations about important topics. Willie is repeatedly overlooked as a musician because he isn’t black. His musical career began in the 1920s/1930s when he was sneaking into black music joints, but the more modern aspects of the story take place in the tumultuous late 1960s. With an attitude of resignation, Willie tells young Kennedy, “Seems like there’s always someone ready to decide who can do what, and who can’t.” Though the old man is plagued by guilt from past mistakes, Kennedy sees Willie differently. The dogged persistence and unwavering faith Kennedy demonstrates for Willie, despite all odds, is a nice change of pace. Together the men develop a heartwarming friendship and navigate the cloudy waters between cultural appropriation and cultural appreciation.

Amazon

Amazon