It can be hard to separate the artist from the art when the artist holds particularly odious views. That country musician and politician Jimmie Davis was an outspoken segregationist who vigorously opposed integration in Louisiana schools is indisputable. That said, author Mann is a gifted storyteller, and Davis’ life is interesting if not to be admired. His close association with the song “You Are My Sunshine,” which he purchased the rights to, makes for compelling reading. We’re left bewildered by a man whose musical know-how was rendered null-and-void by his lack of decency.
(Hardcover) $29.95
