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The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto

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The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto

By: Mitch Albom
Narrated by: George Guidall, Ingrid Michaelson, John Pizzarelli, Mike Hodge, Mitch Albom, Paul Stanley, Roger McGuinn
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At nine years old, Frankie Presto 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 unique, and his amazing journey weaves him through the musical landscape of the twentieth 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 and even KISS.

Frankie becomes a pop star himself. He makes records. He is adored. But his gift is also his burden, as he realises, 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, to change one last life . . .©2015 ASOP, Inc. Family Life Fiction Genre Fiction Metaphysical & Visionary Guitar
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Critic reviews

Mitch Albom sees the magical in the ordinary (Cecilia Ahern)
Powerful . . . Albom has touched the lives of a lot of people he never even knew
Compelling and uplifting
A writer with soul
Albom breaks hearts with his stories
All stars
Most relevant
If ever an audiobok was made just for me this is the one. It has elements of fantasy, a love for music in general and guitar-music in particular just streams out of it.
The story of a young penniless Spanish kid who is brought up during the Spanish Civil War and is taught guitar (in all styles) by a blind master. The boy then travels to the USA, becomes a master musician himself and contrives to get involved with Duke Ellington, Elvis, The Beatles and countless other musical icons. Beautifully written & lovingly narrated by an ensemble of readers, some of whom are real life musicians (Jim McGuin of the Byrds etc) who feature in the story itself.
A moving story that absolutely hits the sweet-spot dead-centre for me (a 59 year-old still struggling to play very basic guitar but persevering none-the-less).
A bonus is that there is a soundtrack album out too, or just access the Spotify playlist via the author's website - you can hear many of the tunes that feature in the story, including some stunningly lovely Spanish guitar.
I tend to be enthusiastic about the books I review - this one is extra special and heartily recommended.

Magic indeed; totally enchanting.

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Great storyline and narration! Read all Mitch Albom's books and this is the first time I'm listening to audio book.

Perfect!

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man cannot write a bad story. can't wait for another story. recommend if you love music with a human touch.

another albom classic

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An author who knows music and has woven the beauty power majesty and hypnotic effect it has on a musicians life through some of the greatest years of music.Wonderous listen and be inspired and enthralled!

Spellbinding tale of music

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A very unusual book but one that music lovers will enjoy. The story is told by 'music' himself and at times it is hard not to believe that Frankie is a real artist as he touches the lives of real musicians. The fantasy elements take the story to another level.
"Everyone joins a band in this life". Readers of this book are one such band. Enjoy it.

Wonderful Listen - highly recommended

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