I, Vivaldi:
A musical picture book

I, Vivaldi

"I, Vivaldi" is a captivating picture-book biography authored by Janice Shefelman, aimed at young readers. The book presents the life of the renowned Baroque composer Antonio Vivaldi from his own perspective, allowing readers to experience his energetic personality and unwavering dedication to music. Narrated as if Vivaldi himself is telling his story, this first-person approach adds a personal touch that makes it accessible and engaging for children. The narrative chronicles Vivaldi's journey from a creative boy to a master composer, highlighting key events and influences in his life while capturing his struggles and triumphs. This makes it an inspiring read for young audiences interested in music and history.

The book is beautifully illustrated by Tom Pohrt, with visuals that complement the text and enhance the storytelling experience, making it visually appealing for children. "I, Vivaldi" has received positive reviews, boasting a rating of 4.7 out of 5 on platforms like Goodreads, indicating its effectiveness as an educational tool that introduces young readers to classical music and its rich history through an engaging format. Overall, "I, Vivaldi" serves as an excellent introduction to one of classical music's most beloved figures, making it suitable for both educational settings and casual reading.

Author: Janice Jordan Shefelman

Janice Jordan Shefelman is an American author renowned for her contributions to children's literature, particularly her picture-book biography "I, Vivaldi," which explores the life of the famous Baroque composer Antonio Vivaldi. Shefelman grew up in Dallas, Texas, and has a background in education, which informs her writing style aimed at young readers. Her works often blend historical facts with imaginative storytelling, making complex subjects accessible and engaging for children. In addition to "I, Vivaldi," she has written several other children's books, often collaborating with her husband, illustrator Tom Shefelman, to create visually captivating narratives that inspire a love for music and history among young audiences.

Book Details:

  • Publisher: William B Eerdmans Publishing Co
  • Format: Paperback
  • Print length: 36 pages
  • Dimensions: 24.89 x 1.02 x 27.43 cm
  • Reading age: 7-11 years old
  • Publication date: 8 Feb. 2022
  • ISBN: 978-0802855862

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How does the book help in teaching KS2 Music with a focus on Antonio Vivaldi?

Author: Janice Jordan Shefelman

The book "I, Vivaldi" serves as a valuable resource for teaching KS2 Music, particularly with a focus on Antonio Vivaldi. By presenting Vivaldi's life and experiences through a first-person narrative, the book engages students and helps them connect emotionally with the composer. This personal storytelling approach allows children to explore Vivaldi's passion for music, providing context for his famous works, especially "The Four Seasons." Teachers can use the book to introduce key concepts such as the structure of concertos and the relationship between music and poetry, as Vivaldi often incorporated sonnets into his compositions.

Incorporating activities based on the book can enhance students' understanding of musical imagery and themes. For instance, educators can facilitate listening sessions where students reflect on how Vivaldi's music evokes seasonal changes, encouraging them to draw or write about their interpretations while listening to pieces like "Winter" from "The Four Seasons." This not only reinforces their listening skills but also fosters creativity and critical thinking. Additionally, the book's illustrations and historical notes can be used to discuss Vivaldi's cultural background and the significance of his contributions to music, making it an effective tool for integrating music education with history and art in a comprehensive manner.

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