THE GIRL WHO HEARD THE MUSIC

The true story of a musician who makes her home a better place.

Mahani Teave lives on Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island. She hears music in everything, from the waves crashing against the rocks to the songs of the crickets. When visitors, who are racially diverse, come to her island with instruments, she longs to play. A retired teacher, who presents as White, arrives one day and brings a piano. Mahani practices diligently, and when a great Chilean pianist visits and hears Mahani perform, he is amazed by her talent and encourages her to work hard. Eventually, she knows she must leave her beautiful island to learn from musicians worldwide. She plays concerts and wins international competitions. Wherever she goes, she shares the beauty of her island. Tourists flock to the island. Unfortunately, they bring trash with them. It takes much effort, but Mahani and a team of islanders use the garbage—cardboard, glass and plastic bottles, tires—to build the island’s first music school. The Rapa Nui School of Music and the Arts is solar-powered and allows the island’s children to pursue their artistic passions. Mahani’s dream of a sustainable Rapa Nui continues. Accompanied by vibrant, delightful visuals, this upbeat and fascinating story will leave readers feeling as though they, too, can make a difference when it comes to helping the planet. Backmatter includes more information on Mahani and Rapa Nui. (This book was reviewed digitally; this review has been updated for accuracy.)

A melodious and uplifting environmental success story.