LOS ANGELES, CA — To mark the 50th anniversary of Don McLean’s iconic song “Vincent (Starry Starry Night),” Meteor 17 Books announces the release of Vincent: Starry Starry Night, a lushly illustrated children’s book that draws both from McLean’s song and Van Gogh’s troubled life.
Written by award-winning author Judith A. Proffer with illustrations by Yoko Matsuoka, Vincent gently opens the door to difficult but essential discussions around sadness, loneliness and the comfort of self-expression. By using Van Gogh’s artistic journey as a backdrop, Vincent fosters empathy and compassion, while offering a glimpse into the notion that a depth of emotions can be hidden behind the canvas.
A bit more fantasy than biographical, this Vincent is a shy and sensitive boy who experiences the world in shadows and struggles to find the beauty within himself. Through art, the young Vincent (who in actuality came to art a bit later in life) finds a way to express his emotions, grabbing feelings with his paintbrushes and claiming light in his works on even the darkest of days.
“This book borrows from my song Vincent,” shares Don McLean, whose song “Vincent (Starry Starry Night)” has become synonymous with Van Gogh’s life and struggles. “At the time, I was reading about the Dutch painter and was moved to compose a song that paid homage to the artist, his work, and his pain. But really, Judith Proffer hardly needed my song’s inspiration since she has a beautiful imagination. We know Vincent’s life didn’t have a happy ending, but by honoring his illness, we bring once-closed conversations into the open, especially for children.”
With warm, evocative illustrations inspired by Van Gogh’s iconic style, Vincent creates a safe space for children and the adults in their lives to discuss complex emotions. It encourages young readers to explore their own creativity, while also underscoring the importance of asking for help when feelings become overwhelming.
“Children often find it difficult to express their feelings with words, especially when it comes to sadness or loneliness and understanding the complex emotions of people around them,” says author Proffer. “With Vincent, I hope to offer a compelling tool that encourages them to share their emotions and understand those of others. I also wanted to demonstrate that art—whether through drawing, writing, or music—can be a tremendous way to experience what’s simmering inside.”
McLean’s 1972 hit remains a powerful anthem for empathy, having reached number one in the UK and becoming a top 20 hit in the US. The song, often referred to by its iconic opening line, “Starry Starry Night,” has been recorded by artists like Josh Groban and Ellie Goulding, and continues to resonate deeply with audiences around the world. Still relevant a half century after it debut, in July 2020 the original handwritten lyrics went up for sale for $1.5 million.
Vincent: Starry Starry Night is available for purchase now from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, ThriftBooks, and many other retailers.
About Don McLean:
Don McLean’s song “Vincent” poignantly reflects the profound melancholy of Vincent van Gogh’s life and emotional struggles. Released 50 years ago as part of McLean’s American Pie album, it became a timeless tribute to Van Gogh’s legacy and remains one of McLean’s most beloved songs to date. The single, “Vincent”, recorded by McLean, has been certified Gold and Platinum by RIAA, on its’ way to Double Platinum status now. Universal Music Enterprises Bruce Resnikoff will present Don with the plaques at Universal in October.
About Judith A. Proffer:
Judith A. Proffer is the author of award-winning children’s books including Patsy Cline’s Walkin’ After Midnight, Broadway Baby, and Bondi & Poppy Help Heal the Planet. She has a passion for creating stories that help children understand the world around them, with a focus on empathy and emotional well-being.
About Yoko Matsuoka:
Yoko Matsuoka is a professional fantasy artist living in northern Japan, known for her vibrant and expressive artwork that captures the imagination of readers of all ages. In Vincent, her illustrations beautifully mirror Van Gogh’s style, bringing his emotional journey to life.
Meteor 17 Books is the publisher behind acclaimed works including Our House by Graham Nash, American Pie, The Fable by Don McLean, Broadway Baby, Dog & Butterfly by Heart, and more.
