The Bear, The Piano, The Dog and the Fiddle

This is an endearing follow up to The Bear and the Piano and as expected, every bit as beautiful as the award winning The Bear and the Piano. I find with David Litchfield's stunning picture books there is always sensitivity and care given to those characters who need it most. His stories are heart-warming and get us thinking about those around us. This story is about friendship and loyalty. Hector is an elderly fiddle player whose dreams of hitting the big time and 'playing at the big concert hall' seem to be slipping away. Hugo is Hector's faithful companion, he had seen the good times and the bad with Hector and now he was seeing him at his worst. Hector had given up fiddle playing altogether! Poor Hector is feeling sorry himself and not at all in the mood to play but meanwhile Hugo is creating 'toe-tappingly, finger-clickingly, whistle blowingly awesome' music up on the roof - having a go at the fiddle himself, for a change. Hector is blown away by Hugo's talent and, as much as he tries to suppress it, he also feels a little jealous. Unfortunately, their friendship is tested as Hugo the fiddle playing dog is a sensation and goes on to bigger and better things without Hector. Will they be able to rekindle their friendship? Will Hector's jealousy cost him his best friend? This is a powerful story, and likely to pull at some heart strings. My favourite part of this story are the words used to portray Hectors jealousy; his 'tummy hurt a bit' at seeing his friend play so well. I think this a simply beautiful and gentle way of talking about a strong feeling that I'm sure so many of us have experienced at some point in life, and what children will experience often but maybe not understand what it is they're feeling. This is a must read in school and at home, if for nothing else but to discuss this poignant emotion. The illustrations are every bit as elegant as the text in David Litchfield's usual dark style, with pockets of light illuminating the page. The story has links to the prequel as the dog goes on tour with the famous piano playing bear we have known to love but I do feel you could read this book as a stand alone and still fall in love with it. Picture book / Ages 4+ / Reviewed by Nikki Stiles, teacher.

Suggested Reading Age 5+

This is the heart-warming story of Hector and Hugo and their love of music. Hector was a fiddle player, and his act was great, until a piano playing bear came along and he had to retire. Hector's dream of playing to thousands one day was shattered so he put away his fiddle forever. Until one night he heard Hugo, his dog, playing his fiddle to the neighbourhood and they loved it! Even the piano playing bear heard Hugo and asked him to join his band. Unfortunately, Hector and Hugo fell out over Hugo's success and Hector said some things he shouldn't have. It wasn't until Hector saw him play that he realised how amazing he was and their friendship is restored, with a duet on stage to thousands! When I heard there was sequel to The Bear and the Piano I was delighted as I was such a big fan of the first book. The illustrations and the detail is brilliant and brings the story to life. This is such a gorgeous book that celebrates friendship and the ideas of forgiveness. It could also explore dreams and how they can come true, even if they take a long time. It would be fantastic to use in class or one to one with a child. Good friendship, just like good music, lasts a lifetime. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this and to my class. Picture book / Ages 5+ / Reviewed by Lauren Maidman, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 5+