On November 26th, Metallica will release their first-ever children’s book, The ABCs of Metallica, a “rhyming, illustrated history” of the band written by Howie Abrams (The Merciless Book of Metal Lists, Misfit Summer Camp: 20 Years on the Road With the Vans Warped Tour) and illustrated by Michael “Kaves” McLeer. Ahead of that date, the band and the creators have shared a particularly meaningful spread from the volume: the two pages for “C is for Cliff.”
The pages feature a reverent illustration by Kaves picturing the late, great Metallica bassist with angel wings, as well as the following rhyme.
C is for Cliff
The “Major Rager” they would say,
So mesmerizing to watch,
Every time he’d play.
Dressed in denim from head to toe,
Often with a Misfits tee,
And a wild mane of red hair
Flying around for all to see.
He played his bass like a master.
His music was a gift to all.
Among the greatest musicians in history,
Cliff Burton will forever stand tall.
Proceeds from the sales of The ABCs of Metallica will benefit the group’s All Within My Hands foundation. The charity is “dedicated to creating sustainable communities by supporting workforce education, the fight against hunger, and other critical local services.” You can pre-order the book via Amazon and Barnes & Noble, as well as Metallica’s official website, where you can find a special bundle perfect for holiday gift-giving.
