Jack White pens children’s book based on song

Melody Baetens
DetroitNews-Unknown

Rather than a rock star’s memoir, or a guide to upholstery, his former profession, Jack White’s first book will be a children’s tale.

The literary arm of White’s Third Man Records, Third Man Books announced the release of a children’s picture book, “We’re Going to Be Friends” Friday.

It’s based on the White Stripes song of the same name from the platinum-certified breakthrough album “White Blood Cells,” and is illustrated by Elinor Blake. Blake is also known as musician April March, and was previously principal animator for the “Ren and Stimpy” show.

“We’re Going to be Friends” is a simple song featuring just White on guitar and vocals. White sings about kids returning to school in the fall with lyrics like “Playtime we will throw the ball / Back to class, through the hall / Teacher marks our height against the wall.”

The book’s release date is Nov. 7, and can be pre-ordered now at smarturl.it/WGTBFbook. “We’re Going to be Friends” will come with a digital download of the original song and a new version recorded by April March and the Woodstation Elementary School Singers from Rock Spring, Georgia.

mbaetens@detroitnews.com

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Twitter: @melodybaetens