Finding the Music / En pos de la música (English and Spanish Edition) - Hardcover

Jennifer Torres

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0892392916 ISBN 13: 9780892392919

Publisher: Lee & Low Books, 2015

Synopsis

When Reyna accidentally breaks Abuelito s vihuela a small guitar-like instrument she ventures out into the neighborhood determined to find someone who can help her repair it. No one can fix the vihuela, but along the way Reyna gathers stories and mementos of Abuelito and his music. Still determined, Reyna visits the music store, where the owner gives her a recording of Abuelito s music and promises that they can fix the vihuela together. Reyna realizes how much she s learned about Abuelito, his influence in the community, and the power of his music. She returns to her family s restaurant to share Abuelito s gifts with Mama and is happier still finally to hear the sweet sounds of Abuelito s music for herself. With lively illustrations by Renato Alarcão, the tradition of mariachi music comes to life in this bilingual story. Winner of Lee & Low s New Voices Award, Finding the Music is a heartwarming tale of family, community, and the music that brings them all together.

About this title

About the Author

JENNIFER TORRES is a first time picture book author and freelance journalist. She grew up 2 listening to mariachi music, and as a reporter, she met mariachi musicians who were responsible for popularizing the genre in California. Torres was inspired to write Finding the Music, for which she won Lee & Low's New Voices Award, by her own neighborhood and the tradition of neighbors coming together to support one another. She lives in Stockton, California, with her husband and their two children.

From School Library Journal

Gr 2–4—Torres, winner of the 2011 Lee & Low Books New Voices Award, here offers readers a charming bilingual story that showcases the power of music as an intergenerational unifier. Every weekend, Reyna hangs out at her mom's restaurant reading and enjoying the diverse cast of customers. One day, she accidentally breaks her grandfather's precious vihuela that was hanging one of the restaurant's wall. Reyna then embarks on a journey to fix her abuelo's beloved instrument, while learning about his legacy, the impact of music, and community engagement. Throughout each page and Reyna's conversations with different community members, her abuelo's presence can be felt. The realistic illustrations enhance the warmth of the tale, and allows readers to see character's expressions and feelings. An author's note is included. VERDICT A rich addition for those who enjoy music and its influence in community and family unity.—Sujei Lugo, Boston Public Library, MA

Edition details

• Publisher: Lee & Low Books
• Publication date: 2015
• ISBN 10: 0892392916
• ISBN 13: 9780892392919
• Binding: Hardcover
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 40
• Illustrator: Renato Alarcao