Written by Susanna Reich, Illustrated by Adam Gustavson
Using spot on illustrations by Adam Gustavson, Fab Four Friends tells the story of the early years of one the greatest music bands in history, The Beatles. Susanna Reich gives the background story of each member, starting with John Lennon, then Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and finally Ringo Starr. The reader learns of their childhood, teen years, and the dedication each had to music. The book ends as their popularity is about to rise. I found this a wonderful tribute to the Beatles and one that any fan would treasure. Growing up during the 1960s and the rise of Beatlemania (I went to the Hollywood Bowl during their first American tour), I loved this book. And it is a wonderful introduction to students of this generation.
Review by Renee Larsen, Hillside Elementary Media Center
Rating: ★★★★★ (5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades 3-6
The author of this book wanted “to show how four ordinary boys growing up amid the rubble of postwar Liverpool found music to be a powerful, even life-saving, force in their lives.” It is a well-written, interesting book. I like how the book introduces you to one member at a time and shows how they became a band over time. I think that students who do not know who the Beatles are will like this book as well as those who do. The story teaches so much more that facts about the band, things like perseverance, determination, and friendship. It is also a great book to use to introduce students to the music if they aren’t familiar.
Review by Vanessa Eyre, Robert Frost Elementary Media Center
Rating: ★★★★½ (4.5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades 2-5
Author Website: http://www.susannareich.com/
Illustrator Website: http://adamgustavson.blogspot.com/
Fab Four Friends: the boys who became the Beatles
Written by Susanna Reich, Illustrated by Adam Gustavson
Christy Ottaviano Books, Henry Holt and Company
40 pages
Release Date: August 18, 2015
