The Adventures with Music Series books published by www.giamusic.com are based on true stories and are written forintermediate through middle school readers. The characters are young musicians who are well-rounded and live life to the fullest. This series weaves real musical examples, composers, conductors and performers into a compelling narrative that tells the story of three generations of families who lead richer fuller lives through music.
EARLY READERS GROUP----We pick 6 young musicians from around the world to read the new manuscript of the next book in the series before it goes to our publisher. We ask these selected young people to read the first two books and then apply to be part of a select group of young readers who get to read the manuscript and give us their suggestions before we send it to our publisher GIA. To become part of this exciting interaction with the authors go to our message board and print out how to apply. Ann and I look forward to hearing from our readers.
Starting Early
A Boy and His Bugle in America During WWII
by Paul Kimpton / Ann Kimpton
2011 GIA Publications, Inc.
A new adventure series where the heroes are musicians!
Dale and his friends waited for this moment, and now it was here: they were finally old enough to play an instrument.
Little did Dale know that his decision to play the cornet would take him on an adventure of a lifetime....
This first book in The Adventures with Music Series begins in the U.S. during World War II. Paul and Ann Kimpton bring to life this unforgettable story about best friends, their dog Scout, bike rides, forts, foot races, and heroism—capturing the spirit of a remarkable time and the sheer joy of making music
Excerpt from the book... The Conn instrument factory was on fire, and only one person could save the town.... "Hurry, Dale! You have no time to spare!" Grandpa warned as Dale hopped on his bike. He put the bugle to his lips, but nothing came out. "Remember what you have been taught," Grandpa advised. Dale licked his lips and tried again. This time the Fire Call came out loud and clear. The sound echoed across the valley. Grandpa shouted, "Now ride to each corner and play it as loud as you can. This is going to be your most important performance ever!"
1.Parents, Teachers, Librarians:Intended for intermediate readers in grades 4 through 8, these books capture the interests of both boys and girls.The series fosters a love of reading while exposing students to American history and the foundations of music. The musician characters provide positive role models for any child, but especially students who like music or play an instrument.
2.General Music Classroom:Support reading across the curriculum in your classroom!The Adventures with Music series promotes musicians as can-do kids.Musical concepts are embedded throughout each high-interest story, thus reinforcing what students are learning in your classroom.Provide your students with a background rich in music history in an exciting context. The books are written to appeal to a variety of reading levels, and as a result, support differentiated instruction in your classroom.
3.Instrumental Music Teachers: Build interest when recruiting beginners, and maintain that excitement, as students develop their musical skills. The Adventures with Music series provides students with positive role models of well-rounded, active musicians. Students see how music can be an essential part of their lives and are drawn to the exciting stories that reinforce the concepts they will encounter when they play an instrument. The series’ characters learn to read music, rehearse, and persevere all while developing leadership skills in their school’s music program.Music history is woven throughout, helping you keep the legacy of music alive for young musicians.
Avalable as of 12/9/2011 #2: Dog Tags
The instruments arrive and the students have their first band rehearsal, but Dale has his mind on other things . . .
Grandpa knelt down and looked directly into Dale’s eyes. “This is a very brave thing you’re doing for your country, son.You’re making the biggest sacrifice any boy can make by volunteering your dog for the military.”
Breaking free from his grandfather, Dale ran to Scout and gave him one last deep hug. He whispered, "Do your best, Scout. I love you!"
COMING Spring OF 2012 #3: A Summer of Firsts
As Dale and his friends climbed the steps to the junior high, a tall dark-haired boy stepped in front of them. Dale looked up and said, “Can you tell us where the band room is?” The boy smirked and looked over at his friends who were leaning against the railing. “Hey, aren’t you that hot shot cornet player from Emerson School, the one who saved the town from the fire.” The boy stared down at Dale, his feet planted firmly on the ground, blocking the entrance to the school. “Well, don’t think you’re coming to my school and taking over. You’re on my turf and don’t you forget it.”
