Itzhak: A Boy Who Loved the Violin (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9781419741104)

Author Tracy Newman and illustrator Abigail Halpin's picture-book biography of violin virtuoso Itzhak Perlman will inspire young readers to follow the melody within themselves.

A Schneider Family Book Award Young Children Honor Book

Before becoming one of the greatest violinists of all time, Itzhak Perlman was simply a boy who loved music. Raised by a poor immigrant family in a tiny Tel Aviv apartment, baby Itzhak was transformed by the sounds from his family's kitchen radio--graceful classical symphonies, lively klezmer tunes, and soulful cantorial chants. The rich melodies and vibrant rhythms spoke to him like magic, filling his mind with vivid rainbows of color.

After begging his parents for an instrument, Itzhak threw his heart and soul into playing the violin. Despite enormous obstacles--including a near-fatal bout of polio that left him disabled for life--Itzhak persevered, honing his extraordinary gift. When he performed on the Ed Sullivan Show at only 13, audiences around the world were mesmerized by the warmth, joy, and passion in every note.

Gorgeously illustrated with extensive back matter, Itzhak: A Boy Who Loved the Violin recounts Itzhak's childhood journey--from a boy with a dream to an internationally acclaimed violin virtuoso.


Author: Tracy Newman
ISBN-10: 1419741101
ISBN-13: 9781419741104
Publisher: Abrams Books for Young Readers
Language: English
Published: 05/12/2020
Pages: 40
Format: Hardcover
Weight: 1.15lbs
Size: 11.00h x 9.10w x 0.50d

Accelerated Reader:
Reading Level: 4.4
Point Value: 0.5
Interest Level: Lower Grade
Quiz #/Name: 511592 / Itzhak: A Boy Who Loved the Violin

Award: Schneider Family Book Award - Honor Book

Review Citation(s):
Kirkus Reviews 03/15/2020
Booklist 04/01/2020 pg. 37
Publishers Weekly 04/06/2020
School Library Journal 05/01/2020 pg. 72