A Remarkable Ear

Will is so used to everyone pleading with him to stop humming or singing or making so much noise that when music teacher Mr Brand tells him that he has a remarkable ear and a gift for music and that he absolutely must learn to play the violin Will is not convinced. In this short, accessible book Anne Fine deploys her characteristic wit and observation to tell the story of a musical boy who learns to play the violin against many odds, little encouragement from his family, nowhere to practice, stage fright and a lack of self- belief. Will does overcome all these obstacles with the help of a wonderful teacher who recognises and develops his ability.

This is a positive and heart-warming tale of success against the odds with important messages about the need for practice, perseverance, and self-belief. It is presented in Barrington Stoke’s dyslexia friendly layout and font and would be particularly accessible to dyslexic, struggling or reluctant readers. It should leave all readers with smiles on their faces as Will realises that his dream of a music school place could become a reality. SR