Hana Hashimoto, Sixth Violin

Reviewed by: Bernie Alie - Kennebunk Free Library, Kennebunk, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: February 9, 2015

Review

Hana's brothers Kenji and Koji ridicule her that she is not ready to perform her violin in the school talent show because she's only had three lessons. Inspired by memories of her summer with her grandfather Ojiichan, a former concert violinist, Hana surprises all with her choice of animal sounds for her performance.

Pencil and digitally colored illustrations are soft and inviting. Asian details such as tatami mats, bowls and chopsticks are worked in flawlessly. The fear of walking onstage and facing the audience is depicted by Hana's small size and the large expanse of space before her. Some details are missing, as her family is not seen in the audience as she takes her final bow, although highlighted in an earlier illustration.

Overall, Hana offers a fine example of the benefits of practicing a musical instrument and belief in one’s dreams.

Overall Book Score: good