LITTLE RAT MAKES MUSIC

In the third early-chapter book to detail her adventures, spunky Little Rat tackles violin lessons. Her heart set on making beautiful music, Little Rat is sorely disappointed that in her first lesson she makes no music at all. She learns only how to care for her instrument. Once she finally does begin playing, hours upon hours of onerous practicing cause her to grow increasingly discouraged until her violin teacher hatches a plan to help her overcome her obstacles. Presented in eight short chapters, the story is told in interesting and varied language sure to expand a young reader’s vocabulary. Bang’s illustrations emphasize and add to the charm and vibrancy of this story about the rewards of perseverance. Case in point: Streams of color pour from Little Rat as she imagines making beautiful music when she plays her violin for the very first time. On the facing page, as Little Rat actually plays her first note, Bang draws a large, angry seagull springing out of her violin. An excellent choice for those readers in transition from beginning readers to chapter books. (Fiction. 6-8)