Although Stamaty’s latest graphic memoir is based on real-life events, it’s also a mystery—not a whodunit, though, more of a “who’s-it-for.” Detailing Stamaty’s lifelong enthusiasm for Elvis, the saga starts in 1955 when young Mark receives a radio as a birthday gift. Little did his parents know that popular music was poised to make a major shift, one that would turn their son into a nine-year-old pompadour-wearing, tennis-racket-strumming Elvis impersonator. Although initially his mother objects strenuously, her happiness at her son’s success at a Cub Scout banquet performance shows that she is proud of his talent even if she doesn’t share his taste. The author’s text evokes everyday life in the ’50s and briefly identifies a number of the musicians who contributed to the development of rock ’n’ roll. His detailed illustrations offer plenty of context, but, like the slight plot and nostalgic tone, they will likely resonate more strongly with adults of a certain age than with children. Appended information, including the story of an impromptu performance for then-President Bill Clinton, reinforces this impression. (Graphic memoir. 7-9)
