Lentil

by Robert McCloskey

For ages 3-6 years

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Reputedly based on Robert McCloskey's own midwestern childhood, his first book (published in 1940) is as close as children's literature gets to a Frank Capra movie, complete with picturesque small-town America, a grumpy millionaire, and a do-gooder innocent (think of Lentil as Jimmy Stewart's younger self from "It's a Wonderful Life"). Lentil loves music, but cannot sing, so he teaches himself to play the harmonica, and this new skill comes in handy at an unexpectedly crucial turning point in his town's history. As the book concludes, "you never can tell what will happen when you learn to play the harmonica." A light and wry homage to the arts from one of the masters, this story is a lovely way to encourage your own little one's creative obsessions. And we think it makes an especially perfect gift for any musically inclined youngster, even better when accompanied by a starter harmonica.

$6.99

Review provided by The Savvy Source.