John McCutcheon

A very short but moving story. As an audiobook it was quite different to have music and a song in it, and an interview with the author, and then for the story to continue. I thought it worked remarkably well. A great way to learn about history in a fun way.

A great book to discuss loss, war, grief, and acts of kindness. This book is based on a true story, which is a great way to connect literature to history. A great story about hope and love.

Beautifully illustrated and beautiful story about a war I know very little about, this book is based on a moving true story I had never heard before. Really great supplemental material at the end of the book as well. If I had kids I'd buy this book. If I taught music, I'd buy this book and read it to my students every year, as the core message of the book is the power of art and beauty in the darkest of times.