“A captivating story which is adorned with gorgeous, detailed illustrations and set against the backdrop of a stunning musical accompaniment. This package with book and printed music represents an innovative, expansive and perhaps even bold vision, leading us happily into the wider world of creative arts."
Kids’ Book Review
“A beautiful children’s book about two young string players living in an apartment building. One plays the violin, one plays the cello. They play alone. Until, one day, everything changes… Celebrate the joy of friendship and the magic of music in this glorious story that also features an original duet for young musicians to play! A great Christmas present for little ones”
Sydney String Centre
“I absolutely loved this one. It's about a boy and a girl who live in neighbouring apartments but never meet, as one plays the violin and the other the cello. What happens next is a sweet discovery that music is better shared! An added bonus is the book's accompanying musical score by Alexander Lau.”
One More Page Podcast
“For such a seemingly simple book, Violin & Cello covers a lot of territory, exploring cultural diversity, life in large cities, musical terms and musical education and friendship. For me, the cherry on the top is that Lau’s composition is simple enough to be played by young cellists and violinists”
Marjorie Lewis-Jones, South Sydney Herald
“I think kids reading this book will get a real enjoyment from the sense of community it offers.”
Reading With A Chance of Tacos podcast
“We do not know what to love most about Violin & Cello, the charming pictures, encouraging words or the delightful tunes you can learn with your best musical friend?”
Matilda Bookshop
“Not only is this a book about music appreciation, it’s also a book about persistence, friendship, and community. A highlight is the inclusion of two musical scores which eager young musicians will be able to either listen to online or attempt playing in their own place. Bartel’s beautiful colour illustrations and diverse community are the icing on the cake.”
Reading Time (published by The Children’s Book Council of Australia)
“This is a story that will resonate with many young readers and show them that music is indeed a universal language and can indeed act like a magic key, to which the most tightly closed heart opens”
The Bottom Shelf Edu Blog
“Reading this unique picture book with young kids starting to learn an instrument is a lovely way to inspire and encourage. Without any didactic moments, it portrays the dedication and practice that is necessary to learn an instrument, moreover, the scores the young musicians send to each other are reproduced in the book, providing an exciting and practical component to the story for children learning either the violin or cello.”
Picture Book Parents
“The charm of this picture book lies in the joy that the children give and receive when they play music together.”
Booklist
“How thrilling! An author who has thought to include musical children in a story book. The Picture Book Violin & Cello is for younger children who are beginning musicians and facing the idea of practising alone. A fantastic combination of three very talented artists.”
Blue Wolf Reviews
“This is an inspiring story for any child beginning to learn a new instrument.”
Mia Macrossan, Story Links
“This lovely story will creep up on the children as they see the possibilities of the two musicians, living next door to each other, but neither making the first move to share their music.”
ReadPlus
“I loved this book! What an inspirational idea for a story”
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