Historical fiction set in Chicago, The Jazz Palace
by Mary Morris opens with the legendary 1915 Eastland tragedy as the death
of 844 people, including three of Pearl Chimbrova’s brothers, is witnessed by
Benny Lehrman, a budding musician and gifted piano player. Years pass and eventually Benny breaks with
his Jewish family, embraces jazz and comes to play at the speakeasy (The
Jazz Palace) run by Pearl’s family. Along the way, he is mentored by Napoleon
Hill, a black musician and talented trumpeter who resents being “owned” by the Rooster
Club where he works.
Throughout The Jazz Palace,
Morris blends elements to create her own melody, skillfully sharing the story
of Chicago, its mob violence, hard-working immigrants, and distinctive neighborhoods,
defined by ethnicity and culture. Cameo
appearances and references to famous historical figures include Louis
Armstrong, Bix Beiderbecke, and Al Capone. Multiple characters experience grief
at the loss of loved ones, fight racial prejudice and all the while reflect on
the nature of music. In fact, one says: "You see, I believe the
universe began with a collection of molecules and into these molecules a ripple
came, a wave that reverberated like a tone and that tone set everything in
motion. It all began with music.”
The Jazz Palace is thoroughly researched;
explaining the heritage of terms like “jass” and “hipsters” and has an online reader's guide. While the tempo of this descriptive, character
driven story slows in the middle, it returns with a crescendo before fading away. The Jazz Palace by Mary Morris has special appeal for anyone interested in Chicago
history and musical vibe.
Added 6/2: Author Mary Morris will be at The Bookstall in Winnetka at 6:30pm on Wednesday, June 3rd.
Added 6/2: Author Mary Morris will be at The Bookstall in Winnetka at 6:30pm on Wednesday, June 3rd.
