Private Lessons (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9781536209600)

In a standout debut for the #MeToo era, a young pianist devotes herself to her art -- and to the demanding, charismatic teacher she idolizes.

After seventeen-year-old Claire Alalay's father's death, only music has helped her channel her grief. Claire likes herself best when she plays his old piano, a welcome escape from the sadness -- and her traditional Filipino mother's prayer groups. In the hopes of earning a college scholarship, Claire auditions for Paul Avon, a prominent piano teacher, who agrees to take Claire as a pupil. Soon Claire loses herself in Paul's world and his way of digging into a composition's emotional core. She practices constantly, foregoing a social life, but no matter how hard she works or how well she plays, it seems impossible to gain Paul's approval, let alone his affection. Author Cynthia Salaysay composes a moving, beautifully written portrait of rigorous perfectionism, sexual awakening, and the challenges of self-acceptance. Timely and vital, Private Lessons delves into a complicated student/teacher relationship, as well as class and cultural differences, with honesty and grace.

Author: Cynthia Salaysay
ISBN-10: 1536209600
ISBN-13: 9781536209600
Publisher: Candlewick Press (MA)
Language: English
Published: 05/12/2020
Pages: 320
Format: Hardcover
Weight: 1.10lbs
Size: 8.10h x 5.50w x 1.20d

Review Citation(s):
School Library Journal 03/01/2020 pg. 118
Booklist 04/01/2020 pg. 73
Kirkus Reviews 04/15/2020
Bulletin of Ctr for Child Bks 06/01/2020 - Book Of Special Distinction
Horn Book Magazine 09/01/2020 pg. 105
Hornbook Guide to Children 07/01/2020 - Superior,Well Above Average