PICTURE BOOKS

The One About the Blackbird

by Melanie Florence (text) & illus. by Matt James
Tundra. Oct. 2025. 40p. Tr $18.99. ISBN 9781774882665. K-Gr 2
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K-Gr 2–From the author of Lo Simpson Starts a Revolution, a quiet and gentle picture book in which a young boy wishes to learn guitar from his grandfather. His grandfather, ever patient, guides his young grandson into the proper position for chords. After a few attempts, the young boy is so frustrated he intends to give up. His wise grandfather counsels patience and, with time, the young boy learns and grows with the guitar, culminating in a bittersweet ending that will leave adults reaching for the tissue box. Florence’s words are soothing, and James’s illustrations work wonderfully with the text; muted warm colors bring the simplicity a story like this needs to thrive.
VERDICT Perhaps this is best for the shelves intended to help grandparents seeking to connect with the young generation.
Reviewed by Maria Graybosch , Oct 03, 2025

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