The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto

From Goodreads:

Mitch Albom creates a magical world through his love of music in this remarkable new novel about the power of talent to change our lives

This is the epic story of Frankie Presto—the greatest guitar player who ever lived—and the six lives he changed with his six magical blue strings

Frankie, born in a burning church, abandoned as an infant, and raised by a music teacher in a small Spanish town, until war rips his life apart. At nine years old, he is sent to America in the bottom of a boat. His only possession is an old guitar and six precious strings. His amazing journey weaves him through the musical landscape of the 1940s, ’50s and ’60s, with his stunning playing and singing talent affecting numerous stars (Duke Ellington, Hank Williams, Elvis Presley) until, as if predestined, he becomes a pop star himself.

He makes records. He is adored. But Frankie Presto’s gift is also his burden, as he realizes the power of the strings his teacher gave him, and how, through his music, he can actually affect people’s lives. At the height of his popularity, tortured by his biggest mistake, he vanishes. His legend grows. Only decades later, having finally healed his heart, does Frankie reappearjust before his spectacular death—to change one last life. With the Spirit of Music as our guide, we glimpse into the lives that were changed by one man whose strings could touch the music—and the magic—in each of us. 

A lifelong musician, Mitch Albom’s passion shines through on every page. Written with an ear for rhythm and cadence, The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto is a classic in the making. Heartrending and inventive, Albom’s latest is infused with the message that “everyone joins a band in this life”—and that music, like love, has the power to affect us all.

For the record-- I don't really  review books.  I don't feel qualified, BUT I do love to talk about them and like to feel part of the book blogging world and this is a good way for me to record my books.

 

From Me:

I wish I had the words to describe this book. Because I do not---I cannot do it justice. 

I loved it.

If you love music at all, you will enjoy this book.

I haven't loved all of Mitch Albom's books  (the 5 people you meet in heaven was one of the Totally Lit's first reads about 18 years ago---I didn't love it.  I was in the minority)

Wait, let me meander back---I didn't love the story, but his writing has always been good and I feel it's at it's best in this book.

 I really really liked this book.  He knows his way around music and a love story with more coincidences than normal life, but it all comes together at the end.

Oh yes!  I can't forget...the story is narrated by MUSIC.  That's right MUSIC.

 

I am torn between 4 and 5 stars.