The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto
At nine years old, Frankie Presto is sent to America in the bottom of a boat. His only possession is an old guitar and six precious strings. But Frankie's talent is unique, and his amazing journey weaves him through the musical landscape of the twentieth century, from classical to jazz to rock and roll, with his stunning talent affecting numerous stars along the way, including Hank Williams, Elvis Presley, Carole King and even KISS. Frankie becomes a pop star himself. He makes records. He is adored. But his gift is also his burden, as he realises, through his music, he can actually affect people's futures -- with one string turning blue whenever a life is altered. At the height of his popularity, Frankie Presto vanishes. His legend grows. Only decades later does he reappear, to change one last life . . .
Reviews
Alicia Evans@aliciasahr
Beautiful story and very easy, light read!
Emma Jacqueline@emmajacq
A 3.5 rounded down because I took some issues with the novel's final twist. It was a beautiful story told with such a unique point of view (Music as narrator reminded me so much of Death narrating The Book Thief), even if I thought at times the removed narrator made Frankie and Aurora a bit inaccessible as characters. That did add to Frankie's legendary status though and I absolutely loved all the real life musician interludes. All in all, it gives what it promises: an ultimately uplifting Forrest Gump-like journey through modern music history.
Darwin Jay Daduya @daduds13
Faith Khong@faithhhk
Alyanna@alyanna
Shahdan Yasser@shahdan
Chaya Holtzberg @chaya
Shyn@shyn
kiki@kiki_srong
Emilie Leonora@leeonora
Keizha Deanne Caminero@kcdeanne
Jane McCullough@janemccullough
Maham Mir@mahammir
Remi Sands @rem7emmi
Dani Pesayco@danipanini