  | Full Text Reviews: School Library Journal - 04/01/2019 K-Gr 3-The best-selling author of the "Origami Yoda" series delights readers with his backstory of J.S. Bach's "Goldberg Variations," loosely based on Albert Schweitzer's account which may or may not be true. A young musician named Goldberg is hired to lull a wealthy man to sleep but night after night, his usual lullabies don't work. In fact, his boss says they are too boring. Fortunately, the greatest composer of all time, Bach, shows up when the rich man is at his most tired and grumpy. Taking pieces of an old folk song, a dance-hall tune, and other "leftover notes," Bach combines them to compose what is later known as the "Goldberg Variations." As strange and difficult as the music seems ("Like being in a thunderstorm of notes!" declares one listener), it is just what is needed for the rich man to get the sleep he needs. The irreverent Angleberger paired with illustrator Elio is a winning combination. Comic style, primary colors, and bold lines offer a whimsical invitation into classical music (links for listening and downloadable sheet music are provided) and its brain-enhancing effects. The endpapers are sections of Bach's famous piece at-a-glance which underscore the music's complexity. The author/illustrator team makes even the most obscure history lessons fun and accessible. VERDICT A lively introduction to classical music for primary grades; purchase just for fun or to supplement enrichment classes.-Jane Miller, Nashville Public Library - Copyright 2019 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission. Loading...
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