Reviews

Hana Hashimoto, Sixth Violin by Qin Leng, Chieri Uegaki

passarinho's review

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5.0

Hana Hashimoto is a little girl who, inspired by her grandfather, is learning how to play violin. Just after attending three lessons, she is determined to enter a talent show and play in front of a crowd. This idea of hers is discredited by her two older brothers who think that she is still too inexperienced with the violin. However, despite this lack of encouragement, Hana perseveres and keeps on training her skills, always keeping in mind how listening to her Ojiichan play made her feel.
There were a lot of aspects that I absolutely loved about this book. It’s written and illustrated by two females, and beautifully so. Both the story and the illustrations are complementary and they draw the reader into the story.
Also, the fact that the characters are from Asian descent really caught my eye, because I believe a lot more representation of cultures other than the western is needed. Having a children’s book, published in US and Canada, that is inclusive and representative of a culture other than the “predominant” can only be object of appraisal. Other than that, the themes portrayed in the story are also very positive and great messages are transmitted to the reader. This is the story of a young girl who fights disbelief (or the lack of encouragement of significant others) and perseveres to achieve her goal, who honors family memories, and who overcomes her fears and anxieties in order to face other people.
Hana Hashimoto, Sixth Violin is a short and really pleasant read and I’m sure both parents and kids will love the book. Absolutely recommended.

booksnbookends's review

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4.0

I received a free ARC copy of this book by the book's publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

After listening to Ojiichan play the violin for her, Hana has her heart set on learning how to play the violin too. Just a few days after beginning to learn how to play the violin, Hana wants to enter the talent contest. She practices everywhere, in front of her brothers and her parents, even her dog, Jojo or an old picture of Ojiichan. Whilst performing alone, Hana can pretend she is performing in front of an appreciative audience. Hana's brothers' however, try to tell her she isn't capable for performing in a talent show when she has barely learnt to play. Instead of doing things as expected, Hana has to do things differently. But sometimes, that can be the best way after all...

This was an absolutely beautiful book and one that shows despite others' comments and beliefs, you are capable of doing anything which you set your heart upon doing. Hana overcomes adversity and stands up to her brothers, proving that with just a bit of courage and confidence, anything is possible. A story that shows you should never let anyone say that you "can't do" something. Go and prove them wrong.

The author has used some brilliant language and the illustrations are beautiful and sensitive. They really enhance the story and bring the characters to life. This would be brilliant to use with children who might be worried about doing something in front of others, whether it be a performance or presentation. I hope you enjoy reading this book and sharing it with others as much I as I have!
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