For generations of fans, Widespread Panic’s music has been more than a soundtrack, its a lifestyle. Now, teacher and author Pete Mason has found a unique way to introduce that spirit to a whole new audience with The Widespread Alphabet, an illustrated children’s book designed for fans of all ages. A kickstarter has been launched to help support this dream which you can do so by clicking here.
Written by Mason and brought to life through the vibrant artwork of acclaimed Pittsburgh artist Mark Serlo, The Widespread Alphabet transforms learning the ABCs into a colorful journey inspired by the songs, stories, and culture surrounding Widespread Panic.
“The lyrics of Widespread Panic lend themselves to incredible imagery thanks to the storytelling nature of many of the band’s songs,” says Mason. “Mark Serlo captures the spirit of each song vividly, and working with him on this book was a fantastic collaboration that has produced a book I hope Widespread Panic fans will enjoy for years to come.”
Longtime fans will appreciate the countless hidden references woven throughout the book. Along with nods to beloved songs, readers will discover tributes to the band’s home state of Georgia, memorable characters from Widespread Panic lyrics, and even a few recognizable members of the fan community. To further enhance the experience, Mason has also curated a companion Spotify playlist featuring songs that inspired many of the book’s illustrations.
A Passion Project Years in the Making
Following the publication of his fourth children’s book, Counting Down the Number Line, in 2020, Mason began developing what would eventually become The Widespread Alphabet. In 2025, he partnered with renowned concert poster artist Mark Serlo, whose work has become instantly recognizable throughout the jam band community.
For this project, however, Serlo intentionally shifted away from his signature poster style in favor of something more approachable for young readers.
“In teaching children to paint in my studio each Saturday morning, I’ve found that being loose and not adhering to strict rules appeals to them more,” Serlo explains. “While I do teach some traditional drawing techniques, I also encourage colorful, imaginative expression. With an alphabet book, we’re reaching even younger children, so we wanted to create artwork that embraces the idea of staying loose and allowing imagination to fill in the rest.”
The result is a book that balances whimsical artwork with meaningful connections to the music that has inspired generations of fans.
For Mason, the project represents both a personal passion and a celebration of a band that has shaped much of his own life.
“My love of Widespread Panic’s music and the band’s place in my life led me to creating a book I am truly proud of,” Mason says. “I’m incredibly grateful for the work Mark has put in over the past year to bring these pages to life. Together, we hope this becomes a must-have addition to every Widespread Panic fan’s bookshelf while introducing children to the joy and imagination found in the band’s music.”
About the Creators
Pete Mason is a teacher, writer, and publisher living outside Albany, New York, with his wife and stepson. The author of seven books, The Widespread Alphabet is his fifth children’s title, combining education with a lifelong appreciation for music. Beyond writing, Mason is active in the live music community through PhanArt, serves on the Board of Directors for The Mockingbird Foundation, publishes NYS Music, and coaches youth soccer.
Illustrator Mark Serlo has spent decades creating artwork inspired by the music world. Beginning his career designing concert posters for Colorado’s Boulder Theater and Fox Theatre, Serlo has gone on to produce posters, merchandise, and paintings for artists including Widespread Panic, The Grateful Dead, Phil Lesh & Friends, Terrapin Crossroads, The Disco Biscuits, Umphrey’s McGee, and many others.
Fans interested in learning more or reserving a copy of The Widespread Alphabet can do so through the book’s Kickstarter campaign.
