This is a wonderful story of the life of Mr. Ives, America’s greatest musical composer.  It begins with his ability to find music in ordinary sounds, which will assist the young reader with relating their own experiences.   During the year of 1915, Mr. Ives is impacted by the sinking of a passenger ship called The Lusitania, torpedoed by the enemy. As he waits with family members on the platform, for the surviving passengers to rejoin them, he begins to sing.  Soon everyone is humming, singing a song which is healing and hopeful for the group.  The power of music is astounding.  From this he creates a piece From Hanover Square North, at the End of a Tragic Day, the Voice of the People Again Arose.

Included in the book are other pieces that he composed, such as Pocahontas for the Ballet. A paragraph of information of each piece, along with an illustration is the just the right balance of information for young readers.  The back of the book, includes extensive information for adult readers to share.  The further reading list and selected sources are obviously well researched.  Great information shared in a great format.  Well done!