LANG LANG: PLAYING WITH KEYS
Delacorte Books for Young Readers, 2008
Lang Lang started learning to play the piano when he was three years old in Shenyang, China. Today he is one of the world's most outstanding pianists. In this engrossing life story, adapted by Michael French, Lang Lang not only recounts the difficult, often thrilling, events of his early days, but also shares his perspective on his rapidly changing homeland. He thoughtfully explores the differences between East and West, especially in the realm of classical music and cultural life. Shining through his rags-to-riches story of a child prodigy who came of age as a renowned musician, Lang Lang's positive spirit, his dynamic personality, and his enduring passion for music will inspire listeners of all ages.
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A really incredible story as well as an excellent and fascinating book. The discipline imposed by his father over the whole of his infancy and youth and his determination to make his son Number One in the world is both cruel and impressive even though justified by the results. |
This is such a moving insight into what is required in the way of work and commitment to achieve one's life long dream. Lang Lang is a very dedicated young man whilst at the same time being loving and compassionate and full of fun and excitement for the future. A very inspiring read. |
Lang Lang's passion for the piano and music began when he was only two years old, and miraculously continued to love the piano in spite of his father's obsession with making Lang Lang the #1 pianist in the world. I would recommend this book to kids in middle and high school who are musicians, and not just pianists. |
Michael R. French graduated from Stanford University where he was an English major, focusing on creative writing, and studied under Wallace Stegner. He received a Master's degree in journalism from Northwestern University. He later served in the United States Army before marrying Patricia Goodkind, an educator and entrepreneur, and starting a family.
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