JOHN AND THE FIDDLER

by Patricia Foley ‧ RELEASE DATE: March 25, 1990

In a quiet, well-written first book, a little boy (John) makes friends with an old carpenter--Sean MacLoegaire (pronounced ""McCleary"")--who makes violins in his spare time. Responding to Johns evident interest, MacLoegaire teaches him to play, eventually giving him a ""teardrop fiddle"" and making him a bow just his size. Presciently (on MacLoegaire's part), they exchange gifts on St. Nicholas Day; and when, at Christmas time, the old man dies, he leaves his best fiddle--the one he played himself--to John. There's little action in this predictable story, but Foley tells it with warmth and with an insight into her characters that should appeal especially to young musicians. Sewall's deft b&w illustrations reflect the wholesome tone.

Pub Date: March 25, 1990

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: 63

Publisher: Harper & Row

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Feb. 15, 1990

Categories: CHILDREN'S