Hana Hashimoto, Sixth Violin

By Chieri Uegaki

Book Overview

In this beautifully written picture book, Hana Hashimoto has signed up to play her violin at her school's talent show. The trouble is, she's only a beginner, and she's had only three lessons. Her brothers insist she isn't good enough. "It's a talent show, Hana," they tell her. "You'll be a disaster!" Hana remembers how wonderfully her talented grandfather, or Ojiichan, played his violin when she was visiting him in Japan. So, just like Ojiichan, Hana practices every day. She is determined to play her best. When Hana's confidence wavers on the night of the show, however, she begins to wonder if her brothers were right. But then Hana surprises everyone once it's her turn to perform --- even herself! The Asian American female protagonist in this story offers a unique perspective, and bestselling author Chieri Uegaki has woven in lyrical scenes from Japan that add depth and resonance. The details in the artwork by Qin Leng connect the two places and contain a feeling of melody throughout. In the classroom, this book could serve as a celebration of music and performing arts, multicultural studies or the importance of intergenerational relationships. It is also a fabulous character education tie-in for discussing courage and perseverance. This terrifically inspiring book offers hope and confidence to all children who are yearning to master something difficult. Perhaps even more important, it allows children to see that there is more than one way to be successful at a task.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1894786335
• ISBN13: 9781894786331
• Release Date: August 2014
• Publisher: Kids Can Press
• Length: 32 Pages
• Weight: 0.90 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 9.3" x 10.3"
• Age Range: 4 to 8 years
• Grade Range: Preschool to Grade 3

Customer Reviews

Lovely illustrations and story

This is a wonderful picture book to read to young kids, especially if they play the violin! Hana is inspired to play the violin by her grandfather, and even enters in a talent show despite her brothers' teasing. A great story about enjoying what you do for the sake of it, and being brave!