The Violin Man

SHORTLISTED, CHILDREN S BOOK COUNCIL AWARDS, PICTURE BOOK OF THE YEAR

For as long as anyone can remember, Oscar has played his violin outside the theatre. Every night, as the people queue for their tickets, Oscar fills the air with his music and the echo of his lost dreams. In the old days, his daughter, Marietta, had been there as well, dancing. For just as Oscar dreams of being a famous violinist, it was Marietta s dream to be a famous ballet dancer. But Marietta became ill and now Oscar plays alone. Some nights, though, he catches sight of Marietta s ghost, dancing under the street light.
One night, Oscar s dream comes true and he is invited to play in the theatre in front of an audience. They are swept away by his music and his skill. But under the glare of the spotlight, Oscar can t see Marietta dancing. He decides to play only outside on the pavement, where he and Marietta can perform together. Don t worry, he says. I won t leave you again.