Mitch Albom creates his most unforgettable fictional character—Frankie Presto, the greatest guitarist to ever walk the earth—in this magical novel about the bands we join in life and the power of talent to change our lives.
In his most stunning novel yet, the voice of Music narrates the tale of its most beloved disciple, young Frankie Presto, a war orphan raised by a blind music teacher in a … teacher in a small Spanish town. At nine years old, Frankie 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 touched by the gods, and his amazing journey weaves him through the musical landscape of the 20th 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, Wynton Marsalis and even KISS.
Frankie becomes a pop star himself. He makes records. He is adored. But his gift is also his burden, as he realizes, 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—just before his spectacular death—to change one last life.
With its Forest Gump-like romp through the music world, The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto is a classic in the making. A lifelong musician himself, Mitch Albom delivers a remarkable novel, infused with the message that “everyone joins a band in this life” and those connections change us all.
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Having Music itself be the narrator of this story intrigued me. Creative and clever descriptions smoothly enriched the story in so many ways. This was well done and artfully presented. I wish it could have ended differently.
I love this book! I really enjoyed the way the fiction story was interwoven with the true stories of many musicians.
Love the way the author weaves a story. Some surprises as well as glimpses of great musicians I remember from years ago.
This is a wonderful read with great characters and an interesting story about how music is an inspiration in life. I really enjoyed this book and have recommended it to friends.
Heartbreaking story of the life of a musician, mixing fantasy and reality.
might be my favorite book of all time…
It was somewhat historical fiction, kept my attention, not truly inspiring like some of his other books.
Inspirational as well as Hauting
This is one of my favorite books. It is a whirlwind story of Frankie Presto, a musician who encounters real and fictional people on his journey of musical self discovery.
A must-read.
This is a masterfully written. I must admit I was one of the people who checked the Internet to see if Frankie was a real person. ha!
This character, his life, the interviews with real musicians, settings, the whole shebang is wonderful. A must-read or audiobook listen. The musicians do their own parts on the audiobook!!! Enjoy…
I LOVED this book. It was an immersive musical experience full of memorable characters and moments that leapt off the page. A journey of music, love, and the impact of one special life on the world.
Awesome book
Very spiritual.
With Music as the narrator, this Mitch Albom tale carries you away into a magic place.
I did an a audio book version of this and it was phenomenal!
Typical Mitch Albom. Excellent read!
Couldn’t our it down!
If you are a musician , you would like this book. Music is personified as the narrator. I loved the blend of fictional and factual characters from music history! Excellent read!
Music is the narrator of this wonderful book. It is about musicians, their communities and bands and the love of their craft. Wonderful!