Meteor 17 Books

With a wave of nostalgia, a bit of insight on a musician's life, and beautiful illustrations, this picture book opens its pages for children as well as adults.

This book is inspired from both Don McLean's life as well as the ever-popular song, "American Pie". It introduces a boy, who delivers newspapers throughout the neighborhood, day after day. He enjoys his job but, unfortunately, he doesn't have any friends. Instead, he lets his imagination flow and build a wondrous world around him. Until, one day, he receives a letter addressed to him and friendship, of sorts, blooms.

When I opened this one up, I had no idea what to expect, since I've never seen the song, "American Pie", as really children accessible. But then, this book isn't really about the song. Not completely. It follows a bitter-sweet tale of a boy with a vast imagination, and his longing for friendship, as well as what happens when it ends. The story makes the heart ache but does leave off on an inspiring note, which gives it a nice mix and depth. So, yes, this is a children's book in the traditional sense...just not a light one. And it is also for adults.

Not only does the boy's life incorporate a few aspects from Don McLean's own childhood as he peddles through the neighborhood to deliver newspapers, but it builds in aspects from the song. These are cleverly woven into the gorgeous illustrations...illustrations, which are worth a glance all on their own because they are simply that well done.

I do find this book hard to review. As a children's picture book, it won't be for all listeners due to the bittersweet story, and I would tend toward slightly older readers, too (6 to 10). It does, however, offer an amazing way to introduce the song if that's the goal. I do see adults enjoying this one quite a bit and a great opportunity for them to use this and the song to connect to the children in their lives. Plus, it is very nostalgic and puts a smile on the face. So, I did enjoy it quite a bit just with a tiny-bit of hesitation as a picture book for the intended age group. Still, it is an amazing book. I received a complimentary copy and would give the story 4 story but loved the illustrations so much that I'm just going to give it 5.… (mehr)