The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto, Mitch Albom

*Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in return for an honest review*

Author: Mitch Albom
Publisher: Harper
Pages: 512
Format: Arc
ISBN-10: 0062294415
ISBN-13: 9780062294418
Original title:
Publisher: eBook | Hardcover | Paperback

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 ...

Sometimes a review should only be one sentence, "This is a beautiful story!" But you will ask me in the comments why.. what was so beautiful and I still have to think of an answer because that is why you read this blog, to find out if a book is something for you.
The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto is a book like that. It is a beautiful story and I do not even know where to start writing my review. There are so many emotions connected in this story I find it hard to put it in words.
The narrator of this book is 'Music'. He tells the story of Frankie Presto, a gifted musician or as Music says one of his protégés. His voice is filled with music. Albom's writing style is always very lyrical but with this character there is something extra in the voice and it made it difficult to put this book down.
Frankie's story is one of lost love, promise, confusion and life choices. There are a lot of interesting aspects and characters filling his life and his journey trough the music world from Duke Ellington to the newer musicians like Bono. This was the only thing that annoyed me a little. It was sometimes difficult to place Frankie in a time. I had the idea he must have been 40 already when he met Duke Ellington while he was really a young teenager. But there is so much information you get the feeling a lot of years must have passed.
There are chapters of well know musicians talking about the influence Frankie had on their lives. They are fun to read.
This book should come with a playlist.

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