February 2nd, 2012 by Razorbill
You've seen this book around and I'm sure you've read plenty of reviews. I'll say the same thing, and a bit more, as everyone else. By the look of this cover, you know this is a love story between two young people. If you want to analyze the cover art a little further, you may get a "rich girl vs wrong side of the tracks" vibe. You would be somewhat correct.
This book is totally different than anything you have ever read. The story starts out when Glory goes missing. It is easy to assume that by that adorable cover these two love birds have flown the coop. Don't jump to conclusions so fast (like I did). Glory's life is her music, and only her music, until Frank moves in next door. We take a peek into their budding relationship through a series of photos, instant messages, letters, postcards, and music playlists. As they fall deeper in love, Glory's music begins to suffer. She is unable to complete a single piano concert without playing Chopsticks. Everything begins to unravel, and Glory's music career isn't the only thing falling apart.
One thing is for sure, you won't be able to put this book after you start it. I dare you to flip through the opening pages of striking and vibrant full-cover photos and decide it isn't for you. Besides, you can make up your mind at the end. I digress.... Before long, you will want to get to those last pages and see where Glory and Frank end up. When you get to the end, you might have to go back a few pages and read it all over again. (like I did) Then, you might sit back and thumb through the whole book a second time to make sure you got it all right. (like I did) Lastly, you might stare off into space and contemplate what you just read. (like I did)
The thing that is most exceptionable about this book, in my opinion, is the teaching opportunity it brings. Reluctant readers, low-literate people of varying ages, and readers with reading disabilities can all experience this book. Chopsticks provides an opportunity to share a story in an unconventional way. Teachers and librarians are always trying to find materials to share with students who may not learn in conventional ways. I can see a high school fine art class picking this title up and having it be the basis of a lesson. Students can tell their story in a series of photos and letters. The possibilities of utilizing the awesome that Chopsticks brings to the table is endless.
Totally gripping, fascinating, intriguing... I could go on and on.
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Find the official Chopsticks page HERE
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