Song of Middle C Book

From the duo of Alison McGhee and Scott Menchin comes a hilarious tale of a first recital — and a charming ode to chutzpah and creative flair.

Practice makes perfect. And for a little girl facing her first recital of "Dance of the Wood Elves," so do artistry, imagination (those wood elves sure love to dance!), and lucky underwear for good measure. Is she nervous as she waits and waits for her turn on stage? Hoo boy, no! She’s as cool as a cucumber! Every child who has felt the pressure of the spotlight will smile at this comical tale of bravado that turns a onenote performance into an improvisation worthy of a standing ovation. Splendissimo!

Children's Literature

"True artistry requires great imagination." so says piano teacher, Miss Kari, in Alison McGhee's delightful tribute to a young girl's first piano recital. Even if your fingers freeze and you completely forget your recital piece, lucky hat, lucky shoes, and lucky underwear may help you stay "cool as a cucumber" and be an "improvisational genius" if you use your imagination. Scott Menchin uses his trademarked large-headed, wide-eyed characters to fine effect in this charming picture book. Song of Middle C will ring true with any young reader who has ever lived through his or her first fearful moment in the spotlight; and may even encourage those who have not done so, yet. Reviewer: Debra Lampert-Rudman