CBR15Passport Books recommended by friends
When Rubin Plays by Gracey Zhang is due in March 2023. I read it via a reader copy via Edelweiss but learned of it when the staff review email list came out (we get a list of what has been reviewed by staff for our web site). And my coworker in our sister store, Isabel had reviewed When Rubin Plays. I knew this would work for my “recommended by a friend” box (though it was indirectly recommended, and I have technically not meet her, but that is the point of our letting others know).
Her review was quick, “This sweet story shares the joy of learning an instrument and the power of music. A lovely story, plus, who wouldn’t enjoy an audience of cats to practice with?” And I agree it is sweet. Otherwise, I must disagree. If I was playing a violin, I certainly would not want cats judging my ability!
And the story is easy enough, the message being enjoy what you do to the fullest. Do not sit quietly but play out loud. But for me, it was the illustrations (also by Zhang) that captured my interest. They are not “fleshed out” in a solid manner, but the cover shows you what you will get. Boldy colorful, oddly detailed (sometime you can see it all, and sometimes the items are slightly hidden, and not always “solid” to the eye). I would say they are nice, but nice is not a strong enough word. But I guess I mean they are pleasant.
All ages can enjoy reading and having it read to them, as though it is a smidgen longer, you can read the illustrations and give your own special twist to things.
