We're always on the lookout for books that incorporate music or musical instruments, or that tell stories centered around music. This was a great read from a time period and place that doesn't get much attention in children's literature -- 1920s Appalachia, when country music first began to be collected, shaped and recorded.
Nate grows up in his preacher father's outdoor church tent, where music and science are banned as Satan's great evils. But when the Victor recording company comes to town, looking for singers and instrument players who know the old songs, he's drawn like a bug to a lamp.
After a few magical moments hearing the Carters perform, and watching how the equally magical equipment records their heavenly sounds, how can he ever go back to his father's tent?
Then the Great Depression strikes and he leaves home and rides the rails. While pursing a few lines he once overheard his mother sing in the kitchen, he discovers the painful reason why his father exorcised music from their lives.
An excellent read!
