Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Picture Book Review: "Frederico, the Mouse Violinist" Mayra Calvani

"Frederico, the Mouse Violinist"
Author: Mayra Calvani
Illustrator: K.C. Snider
Publisher: Guardian Angel Publishing
http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/
Hardcover: 978-1-61633-113-9
Paperback: 987-1-61633-114-6
EBook 13: 978-61633-125-2
Copyright 2010
Picture Book: 26 pages

Reviewed by author/educator, Kathy Stemke

Do you know any curious, young, music lovers?  If so, introduce them to "Frederico, the Mouse Violinist."

Mayra Calvani combines the curiosity and playfulness of Frederico the mouse with the history and genius of Antonio Stradivari, the famous violin maker, to tell a delightful story of kindness and friendship. Children will learn music vocabulary and the parts of the violin as they follow Frederico’s nightly escapades.

Curious Frederico peeked into the f-hole and looked inside the violin.
“This is the secret, magical place where sound comes out!” he squeaked.

The realistic, yet whimsical, illustrations by K. C. Snider add to the fun. The surprise ending of “Frederico the Mouse Violinist” will fill your heart with “warm fuzzies.” It may just inspire you to follow your dreams.

As a retired teacher, I would recommend this book as a fantastic way to introduce stringed instruments into the classroom. A biography of Stradivari and his accomplishments are included in the back of the book. The activity pages will reinforce the new vocabulary introduced in the book as well.

To learn more about Mayra Calvani and her books check out her blog: http://mayrassecretbookcase.com/

Kathy Stemke's websites:
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10 comments:

MrBibleHead said...

Great review Kathy! The book sounds delightfully entertaining! Congrats Mayra and K.C.!

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Carolyn Howard-Johnson said...

It seems Mayra has a violin series going! Way to go Mayra!

Best,
Carolyn

Cheryl said...

Nice review, Kathy. I loved this book too. Mayra has so many wonderful kid's books out. I can't wait to see what she comes up with next.

Cheryl

Kai Strand, Author said...

This is a beautiful book! So glad you reviewed it Kathy. Good luck to Mayra and K.C.

Mayra Calvani said...

Dear Kathy,
Thank you so much for taking the time to review my book and spread the word. I really appreciate it!
Happy New Year!
Best,
Mayra

Unknown said...

Thanks for dropping by to support Mayra and K. C. with their new book. God bless!

Karen Cioffi said...

Wonderful review, kathy. Frederico is on my to review list.

Unknown said...

This is a lovely review. Thanks so much for my first smile this morning!

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

Hi Kathy .. sounds a wonderful way to educate kids - would do me (a very non-musical adult) good too ..

Sounds such fun .. great to know about & the name "Frederico" rolls of the tongue so easily .. thanks - Hilary