ADAM AND HIS TUBA

Listen. Learn. Adapt.

The members of the Von Trapeze family are performers who travel the world showing off their amazing feats. Grandma Antonia breathes fire. Grandpa Angus swallows swords. Uncle Artem and his family construct human pyramids. Mama Anastasia and Papa Alexei traverse the high wire blindfolded. And twin daughters Aria and Alea juggle on a unicycle and are blasted from a cannon, respectively. The only member not taking center stage is the youngest, Adam, who has attempted all of these things without success. While the family gathers to discuss how they can best help him thrive, a magical melody fills the air. The family investigates and finds Adam playing the tuba with unbelievable skill. The family is gobsmacked: “How come we never noticed, or heard him, before now?” “It would appear we were completely caught up in our circus tricks,” says Papa Alexei. It’s a striking thought and one that will resonate with many readers—and hopefully with many caregivers who are trying to turn their children into things they’re not. Once Adam’s talent is discovered, he’s able to join the newly modified family business, proving that the best traditions allow for adaptations so that everyone feels included. Translated from German, this strong narrative is enhanced by the sepia-tinged artwork; the result is a tale fit for the center ring! Adam and his family are light-skinned. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

Readers will be left screaming, “Encore!”