Gr 4-7
While it is unlikely that today's children have heard of the famous 19th-century musician, this picture book will serve as a welcome introduction. Surrounded by rumors and legends, the story of the renowned violinist is sure to intrigue young readers. At age four, Paganini "died" after a bout of the measles but just as he was being prepared for burial, someone noticed he was still breathing. Thus returned from the "dead," he went on to become one of the most extraordinary musicians of his day. Tall by nature and gaunt and ashen due to continued illnesses, Paganini looked otherworldly. His mythical playing reinforced that notion, and tales of deals with the devil surrounded him. In this book, a gravedigger at the musician's grave tells the story of Paganini's strange life to a young assistant, and readers get to listen in. The dark, moody artwork fits this story perfectly and makes it just a little bit scary. Maybe Paganini did make a deal with the devil. Youngsters will have to make up their own minds after reading this engaging tale about a captivating and gifted man.-Joan Kindig, James Madison University, Harrisonburg, VA
His name is familiar today only to lovers of musical virtuosity, but in his brief life the Italian-born violinist and composer thrilled late 18th- and early 19th-century Europe with his brilliant style, unnatural technique and stage presence. Frisch tells his life as a folktale that begs to be read aloud. Paganini almost died of the measles as a child, outshone the learned teachers of the time, gambled and chased women. A disease left his joints unnaturally loose. He dressed in black and had a complexion "the color of the moon." Having refused the last rites of the Catholic Church, he was denied burial for years. Combine this story with Kelley's dramatically dark full-page paintings that conjure up images of Van Gogh, Picasso cubism and a set design for Cabaret and you have a sure-fire Halloween program. Just add some music. The story is told by a fictional cemetery worker, which may, on a technicality, disqualify this as a biography. Still, the life remains with all its fascinating ups and downs. A discography should have been included. (author's note, bibliography) (Picture book/biography. 8 & up)
