The Violin Man

Antonio is an ordinary 10-year-old living in an ordinary Italian village during the 19th century. ``It was only when traveling men came to town that Antonio got ideas about a life that was anything but ordinary,'' writes Hooper. When the boy meets one of the itinerants of his dreams--Luigi, ``come to find something''--he discovers excitement under his very nose. He helps Luigi seek out a priceless Stradivarius that the newcomer believes is concealed somewhere in the village. As Antonio and Luigi conduct their search, they develop a special friendship. The traveler--``some call me the Violin Man''--helps Antonio view his life differently; not only does the lad unearth an invaluable treasure, he also gains a new respect for the townspeople, his family and himself. Hooper's poignant debut novel brims with distinctive characters and atmosphere conveyed through vibrant language and authentic period touches. Along the way, Luigi's commitment and dedication to music provide strong comment on the grandeur of this art form. Ages 6-12. (Oct.)