The Remarkable Farkle McBride

Farkle McBride is definitely a remarkable little guy. He could play the violin at three. But was bored with violin playing at four. At five he discovered the flute. But at six decided it was not for him. When Farkle was seven, he took up the trombone, but then gave it up too. Next he tried percussion, but decided that was not quite right for him either. After thinking and thinking he realized that his very favorite sound was all the different instruments playing together...the orchestra. And so when the conductor gets sick, Maestro Farkle McBride steps in, finding what he really likes to do most at last. John Lithgow as written a terrific children's book, full of rhythm, rhyme and wonderful sound effects. His text is complimented by C.F. Payne's very expressive and detailed, larger than life illustrations. This is a delightful story that will charm and amuse all youngsters aged 4-8 and is a wonderful introduction to both musical instruments and the orchestra. The Remarkable Farkle McBride is a winner and a wonderful addition to all home libraries.

My kids (4-1/2 and 3 year-old twins) absolutely love this book! The words are interesting and complex, the rhymes are goofy, the illustrations are hysterical. I understand that there is a CD available to complement the book, which we will surely buy. We loved this book so much that we are donating a copy to our eldest's school. If you are familiar with and enjoy Garrison Keeler's delightful childrens book, "Cat, You Better Come Home," then Mr. Lithgow's book is a must buy.

As I read some of the other responses I got the idea that some people got different things out of this book than I did.I first bought this book for the Illustrations (which I might add are up there with Ezra Jack Keats and Van Allsburg). Then I read the book and really enjoyed it.Someone mentioned that It gave the wrong Ideas to kids. The only ideas that I saw this book giving to kids is that it is good to be interested in things and to not be afraid to try new things until you find what you love to do.I would really recommend this book to anyone.

Although Farkle does try various instruments and then tire of them and disrespect them by destroying them, this book is worthwhile for the moral. That one should never give up and always keep trying to find one's "fit" into the world. For Farkle his passion is music and after trying many instruments at the end he finds his "fit" where he can appreciate all instruments.This might be a bit tedious for adults, but this is a very important lesson for children to learn and to recognize that there are other options out there, just because you start learning music on a piano does not mean you can't try the trombone or if you work in pastels you can't work with watercolors.This is a great read which is funny, fun, and silly, while still maintaining a serious message.

This book is a great introduction to the orchestra for kids! Lithow's rhymes are filled with wonderful sounds that mimic the noises of various instruments. I heard Mr. Lithgow on National Public Radio today and he talked about how children are sure to identify with frustrated Farkle as he tries to find his true calling--which is ultimately not to play any single instrument, but to be the conductor of the orchestra. What a terrific message about the power of collaboration! And don't miss out on the truly inspired paintings by illustrator C. F. Payne!