TORI AND THE MUSES

Singer/songwriter Amos makes her picture-book debut with this tale of a youngster seeking inspiration.

Tori is an uncommon talent on the piano. She longs to play what she desires—“what the Muses want me to play”—but her stern father instructs her to buckle down before her upcoming recital. Soon after, 11 ethereal, personified Muses, who have been visiting her and offering her inspiration since she was a baby, arrive with a surprise: a magical pink piano, carried by golden faeries. The Muses give Tori a mission—learn what inspires others, and find out what types of Muses they hear. Tori floats through town trailed by her piano, greeting her friends, playing them songs, and learning about their passions, which include everything from bugs to baking. She rushes home to play one more song for her father. Finally opening his heart and realizing that numbers are his Muses, Dad appreciates the mathematical rhythm of her music for the first time. Fantastical, at times surreal illustrations depict doll-like characters as they move through an oceanside town. Amos’ narrative is somewhat weighed down by a winding plotline, but the uplifting message about the importance of following one’s passion shines through. Tori and her father read white; hairstyle, clothing, and skin tone cue the Muses as racially and ethnically diverse.

A meandering but heartfelt tale of imagination from a real-life musical master.