Author Judith A. Proffer and Don McLean pose with a young fan at Barnes & Noble ‘Vincent: Starry Starry Night’ book signing event.
Recognition Continues to Grow for the Children’s Book Inspired by Don McLean’s Iconic Song “Vincent (Starry Starry Night)”
LOS ANGELES – On Sunday, April 13, 2025, legendary singer-songwriter Don McLean made a rare in-store appearance at Barnes & Noble at The Grove in Los Angeles for a special signing event. Fans of all ages gathered to meet McLean and co-author Judith A. Proffer and purchase signed copies of the new book. The event, which ran from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., marked a meaningful moment in McLean’s celebration of the song’s 50th anniversary, bringing its message to life through a new storytelling format.
Further amplifying the book’s reach, Vincent: Starry Starry Night was selected by The Creative Coalition for inclusion in its exclusive National Arts Summit this past February in Las Vegas. Distributed to more than 500 distinguished attendees, this recognition underscores the book’s resonance within arts and cultural leadership circles.
The book also recently received a bronze medal for Illustrations at the prestigious Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards, which annually recognize exceptional children’s literature. Honoring works that inspire imagination, encourage diversity, and instill a lifelong love of reading, the Moonbeam Awards are a benchmark of literary excellence—and Vincent proudly stands among this year’s winners.
And the book has also been named a finalist for cover illustration in the children’s category for the IBPA Book awards. Winners will be announced next month in St. Paul.
“All of the accolades for Vincent: Starry Starry Night are a true affirmation of our mission at Meteor 17—to tell stories that matter,” said Spencer Proffer, CEO and Founder of Meteor 17. “The continued recognition of this book underscores its universal message and enduring relevance.”
Authored by Judith A. Proffer and illustrated by Yoko Matsuoka with a foreword by Don McLean, Vincent: Starry Starry Night is a lushly illustrated and emotionally poignant introduction to the life and art of Vincent van Gogh. Through themes of creativity, empathy, and emotional resilience, the book has captivated readers across generations, reinforcing Meteor 17 Books’ mission to publish meaningful, multi-generational stories.
“Meteor 17’s commitment to cultural impact made lending my song to Spencer and Judy to inspire them to craft such a beautiful story Vincent: Starry Starry Night a natural choice,” said Don McLean. “It’s a beautiful reminder of how art and literature can start meaningful conversations, especially with younger generations.”
With an ever-growing list of honors, Vincent: Starry, Starry Night continues to affirm the transformative power of storytelling and the timeless legacy of Don McLean’s music. Meteor 17 Books remains dedicated to publishing work that uplifts, resonates, and inspires long after the final page is turned.
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https://www.amazon.com/Vincent-Starry-Night-Judith-Proffer/dp/1735384453
About Don McLean
Don McLean’s song “Vincent (Starry, Starry Night)” 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.
