AVEN GREEN MUSIC MACHINE

Irrepressible Aven Green returns to tackle a new challenge: playing a musical instrument.

When her teacher Ms. Luna announces a talent show, Aven has no trouble listing her many skills: She’s already a keen detective and a strong baker. But what she really wants is to be a professional musician. After all, not having arms doesn’t mean she can’t play an instrument. And surely, a week is more than enough time to master some Mozart! But finding an instrument she can handle—or rather “feetle”—is tougher than it seems. The violin is out of the question, and her toes don’t stretch enough to play chords on the piano. Her best friend hurts her feelings by dubbing her piano-playing “bad noises,” and hearing about her classmates’ talents (which range from artistic to humorously revolting) makes her feel like giving up. But with support from Ms. Luna, her parents, and her great-grandmother, Aven learns that all that matters is doing her best. As Aven’s appealing self-confidence alternates with frustration, Bowling simultaneously acknowledges setbacks and reassures readers that discouraging feelings don’t last forever. Adults’ matter-of-fact acceptance of Aven’s musical ambition is refreshing, and the resolution to her instrumental dilemma is heartwarming. Straightforward dialogue explores such concepts as patience, persistence, and tact. Perry’s spirited black-and-white cartoon illustrations vividly express Aven’s sadness, determination, and joy. Aven and her family present White, Ms. Luna is depicted as brown-skinned, and Aven’s classmates are racially diverse.

Realistic, affirming, and uplifting.