Book details
Anna Maria's Gift (A Stepping Stone Book(TM))
Description
When Anna Maria's father, a famous violin maker, dies, she is sent to live in the Pieta, an orphanage in Venice. Though she misses her father, she knows he will always be with her, as long as she has the beautiful violin he crafted for her. The Pieta is also a renowned music school whose teacher is composer Antonio Vivaldi. As his star pupil, Anna Maria's violin becomes the target of another orphan's jealousy, leading it to be thrown into the canals. With help from her teacher and friends, she searches Venice to find it, but it seems hopeless. Will she ever recover her father's violin? The book is part of the Stepping Stones History series, reissued with a fresh look and added content, and is designed to be kid-friendly and Common Core ready.
Age
7-10
Text complexity
developing
Length
112 pages
Why to read
- Historical Insight: 'Anna Maria's Gift' is set in the early 18th century and offers readers a glimpse into the world of music and life in Italy during that time. It provides historical context and educates readers about the era, making it a great choice for those interested in history and culture.
- Musical Inspiration: The story revolves around a young girl's passion for music and her journey at the Venice orphanage where Antonio Vivaldi taught. It can inspire readers, especially young ones, to appreciate classical music and perhaps even pursue learning an instrument themselves.
- Emotional Growth: Through the protagonist's experiences, readers can learn about coping with loss, the importance of perseverance, and the power of friendship. These themes contribute to the emotional depth of the story and offer valuable lessons for readers of all ages.
- Accessible Reading: As part of the 'A Stepping Stone Book(TM)' series, 'Anna Maria's Gift' is designed to be accessible to young readers who are transitioning from early readers to more complex stories. The book's language and structure support developing readers, making it a great educational tool.