In this beautifully written picture book, Hana Hashimoto has signed up
to play her violin at her school's talent show. The trouble is, she's
only a beginner, and she's had only three lessons. Her brothers insist
she isn't good enough. "It's a talent show, Hana," they tell her.
"You'll be a disaster!" Hana remembers how wonderfully her talented
grandfather, or Ojiichan, played his violin when she was visiting him in
Japan. So, just like Ojiichan, Hana practices every day. She is
determined to play her best. When Hana's confidence wavers on the night
of the show, however, she begins to wonder if her brothers were right.
But then Hana surprises everyone once it's her turn to perform --- even
herself! The Asian American female protagonist in this story offers a
unique perspective, and bestselling author Chieri Uegaki has woven in
lyrical scenes from Japan that add depth and resonance. The details in
the artwork by Qin Leng connect the two places and contain a feeling of
melody throughout. In the classroom, this book could serve as a
celebration of music and performing arts, multicultural studies or the
importance of intergenerational relationships. It is also a fabulous
character education tie-in for discussing courage and perseverance. This
terrifically inspiring book offers hope and confidence to all children
who are yearning to master something difficult. Perhaps even more
important, it allows children to see that there is more than one way to
be successful at a task.
