Mayra's Secret Bookcase Amazon Category:  Children Publisher: Guardian Angel Publishing ISBN-10:  1933090499 Type: Fiction Pages: 32 Copyright: November 2007 ISBN-13: 9781933090498 Eight-year old Melina wants to become a good violinist. When she loses confidence, her Rumanian teacher Andrea decides it's time for a magic dose of self esteem. A mysterious old woman in rags gives Melina some curious advice; a violinist Russian hamster, who happens to live under the old woman's hat, offers her a virtuoso performance; a shooting star fills her with hope on Christmas Eve. Is Melina actually playing better, or has her violin become magic? Who is the old woman in the town square, and why does she wear the same emerald ring as her teacher Andrea? Eight-year old Melina wants to become a good violinist. When she loses confidence, her Rumanian teacher Andrea decides it’s time for a magic dose of self esteem. A mysterious old woman in rags gives Melina some curious advice; a violinist Russian hamster, who happens to live under the old woman's hat, offers her a virtuoso performance; a shooting star fills her with hope on Christmas Eve. Is Melina actually playing better, or has her violin become magic? Who is the old woman in the town square, and why does she wear the same emerald ring as her teacher Andrea? “The story combines violin music, magic, Christmas, and the charm of 19th Century Europe,” says Calvani, whose passion for the violin has led to several stories and novels since she began playing four years ago. “This is a book that little girls who are learning to play the violin will be able to identify with. The violin is an extremely difficult instrument to learn—probably the most difficult instrument there is, and sometimes learning a new piece can be quite disheartening. Hopefully my book will motivate young players to persevere and have self trust. Above all, I want my love for the violin to come through the pages and inspire children to try this incredible instrument.”

Armchair Interviews
Melina yearns to be good at playing the violin. But it requires work, persistence and confidence. Melina is short on confidence and wants to quit.

Her kind and gentle teacher, Andrea, recognizes Melina's self-esteem problem and decides she needs some magic, which is delivered in the form of a mysterious old woman who gives Melina some interesting advice. But the delightful surprise is the Russian hamster living under the old woman's hat. He gives Melina an inspiring performance that fills her with hope on Christmas Eve.

But the questions are: Is Melina really playing better because she's inspired and has gained confidence, or is she in possession of a magic violin? And who is the old woman in the town square and why does she wear the same beautiful emerald ring as her violin teacher Andrea? "Could it be possible? Could Andrea and the old woman be the same person?"

I love children's books that inspire. And The Magic Violin inspires and entertains. The story is set in Belgium (where the author lives) and is sweet, well-written and zero's in on a huge problem with many children; self-esteem. The illustrations are all lovely but the cover captivates the reader's attention. It is so beautiful it could be framed.

Armchair Interviews says: The Magic Violin is a must read, must have for children. They'll be inspired by the story and the illustrations will delight them.

Muse Book Reviews
One day, Melina is out with her parents when she hears Vivaldi’s piece being played. And this is where the magic for this little girl and for all the little girls who will read this story will begin.

Mayra strings the reader with her simple yet precise words, and the illustrations bring the whole book to life. The Magic Violin is a tale of believing in yourself, a ‘feel good’ classical read.

I highly recommend it for families to read together and appreciate the magical qualities an adult can inspire in a young child."

--Lea Schizas – Muse Book Reviewer



YABooksCentral
Melina loves the violin, but learning to play can be challenging. Like now, when she’s trying to play “Winter” and she just can’t seem to get it right.

Her Rumanian teacher, Andrea, is patient and kind, but even she can’t keep the tears of frustration from her young pupil’s eyes. Perhaps it’s time for a magic dose of confidence.

During a visit to the city’s center with her parents, Melina is amazed to hear someone playing “Winter” on a violin. The mysterious stranger, who seems to have something in common with Melina’s teacher, suggests a special midnight wish upon a star.

But, is Melina’s new ability to play “Winter” due to magic or to the practice she puts in as she gains confidence? And, who was that mystery lady?

This is a beautiful book with lyrical text. Vivid descriptions make Melina’s emotions tangible. The accompanying illustrations are a perfect match. They give a charming view of 19th Century Europe.

A lovely addition to any child’s bookshelf.

--Julie M. Prince