I loved Helen Rutter’s The Boy Who Made Everyone Laugh so am absolutely delighted that she has brought her trademark empathy, humour and warmth to an accessible-to-all Barrington Stoke read. A sharp tongue and a short temper are an explosive combination for Lacey Layton who is always getting into trouble at school. Out of love with learning, she spends more time in isolation than in the classroom. As a last resort, Lacey is sent to lunch-time music sessions to keep her out of trouble on the playground and there she discovers a love and talent for the piano that she never knew existed. With the help of music teacher Mr Day, Lacey is finally turning her life around so the bombshell news of his departure hits hard. Will she fall back into her old ways or will music and the piano at the station be the salvation that she so desperately needs… Helen hits all the right notes in a sensitively written, cathartic story where the answer to Don McLean’s question in American Pie, ‘Can music save your mortal soul?’, is answered with an emphatic yes. Taking an honest and authentic look at a young life where everything isn’t rosy, The Piano at the Station is a heartfelt, powerful and challenging novella that will invoke empathy, understanding and some deep thinking from any reader. Filled with insight and empathy, Lacey’s story is an unusual one with Helen portraying a character and situation that is not often evident in children’s literature. A household with low expectations, the lack of a positive role model and a school environment where isolation is the answer to disruption are just some of the challenges that Lacey experiences. Ultimately there is a feel good ending and the importance of self acceptance, self discovery and becoming the best version of yourself shine and will encourage others to unlock all that they are capable of.
Told with great awareness and understanding and featuring Elisa Paganelli’s fabulous artwork this is another engaging and important Barrington Stoke read that is perfect for sharing with children in year four up. Dyslexia-friendly font and page tint ensure that everyone can enjoy this short yet compelling read. Recommended for 8+. With huge thanks to Barrington Stoke for the copy I received in exchange for an honest review.
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