Paul and His Ukulele

author: Robert Broder

illustrator: Jenn Kocsmiersky

Hardcover picture book

40 pages

10 x 8.5 inches

$17.99

ISBN: 978-0-9990249-2-8

Release date: September 18, 2018

About the Book

 Not all who wander are lost, sometimes they’re just searching for a new song. 

Paul was given a present. 

“A guitar?” said Paul. 

“It’s a ukulele.” said his parents. 

Paul loved his ukulele and spent all his time crafting his own song. As he got older, Paul knew it was time to head out in search of something new. 

When his travels took him to one small town, the unexpected happened. But from unexpected circumstances can come new friendships and new experiences. And maybe that new song he’s been looking for. 

Our Book Trailer - by Jenn Kocsmiersky, ukulele music by Robert Broder 

About the Author/Illustrator

Robert Broder loves picture books, cold weather, and warm chocolate chip cookies. He likes all dogs and only two cats. When he’s not outside hiking with his family, he’s inside playing his ukulele. Visit his website: RobertBroder.com

Jenn Kocsmiersky is a freelance watercolor artist and illustrator. She studied American Studies, fine art, and cultural studies and taught writing in higher education for ten years before pursuing an art career. Jenn is particularly interested in increasing diversity in children’s literature. She is a recipient of 2016 WNDB Walter Myers Grant. Jenn has two children and lives in upstate New York. Visit her website: JennKocsmiersky.com

Reviews

From Midwest Book Review, May 3, 2018:

Not all who wander are lost, sometimes they're just searching for a new song. A young fox named Paul was given a present. "A guitar?" said Paul. "It's a ukulele." said his parents. Paul loved his ukulele and spent all his time crafting his own song. As he got older, Paul knew it was time to head out in search of something new. When his travels took him to one small town, the unexpected happened. But from unexpected circumstances can come new friendships and new experiences. And maybe that new song he's been looking for. An impressively original and immensely entertaining picture book story for children ages 5 to 7 by author Robert Broder and illustrator Jenn Kocsmiersky, "Paul and His Ukulele" will prove to be an enduringly popular addition to family, elementary school, and community library collections for young readers.

From songwriter and ukulele player Victoria Vox, May 25, 2018

Paul and His Ukulele is a touching children’s book about finding a passion, growing up to be independent (but asking for help when you need it), and making new friends. Sweetly written by Robert Broder and beautifully illustrated by Jenn Kocsmiersky, the reader joins Paul on his musical journey in life. Paul traveled with his ukulele, singing his song, but a new friend comes along, proof that the sum is greater than its parts. Paul and His Ukulele has a great message, making this story enjoyable for every child, young and old. 

From Booklist, July 5, 2018:

On Paul’s ninth birthday, his parents give him a ukulele, and it’s love at first sight for the young fox. He spends his free time plucking away at the strings, forgoing playtime with friends in order to teach himself songs on his new instrument. After leaving school, Paul enjoys playing “soft music” in the park to make money, until the day arrives when he feels it’s time to leave home. After seeing a bit of the world, traveling to mountains, forests, and big cities, he decides to settle down in a small town. When a ukulele disaster strikes and an empty storefront beckons, Paul’s life changes again. Striking watercolor illustrations highlight the story and depict the soft, hazy golden leaves of fall, as well as the sharp, architectural lines of buildings. The pictures, which vary from single- to double-page spreads and vignettes, are filled with residents that include sheep, bears, rabbits, and elephants. Here is a quiet story of a life made happy by following a passion for music.— Maryann Owen