Luigi at the Opera

“We are opera aficionados,” proclaims Luigi’s Grandpa Rigoletto as they tool around in his convertible, and within a few pages, the duo—now looking dapper in formal wear—are attending a performance of The Flying Dutchman. Alldredge-Bell and Williams-Ng walk readers through this experience without a whit of lecturing or posturing, capturing the telling details of a child’s perspective: being ushered to one’s seats in the “awesome” opera house, peering through the opera glass (and catching the piccolo player scratching her nose with her instrument), the elegant snacks of intermission, and Grandpa’s momentary dozing (“Just listening, my aficionado,” he assures Luigi). Then there’s the opera itself: a feast for the senses with magnificent scenery (“A big ship with a red sail. The sail snaps and billows”), sound and light effects (“Drums roll. Thunder. Cymbals clang”), and a lovely soprano. Williams-Ng’s rounded shapes, warm colors, and eager-eyed characters make this intimidating and often spoofed art form feel instantly approachable; don’t be surprised if this winning story of intergenerational bonding over great music prompts readers to ask when they can go to the opera, too. Ages 3–8. (Nov.)