Through the Looking Glass Children's Book Reviews
Jake the Philharmonic Dog
Illustrator: Marcin Baranski
Picture Book
For ages 5 to 7
Walker, 2006 ISBN: 978-0802795526
Jake is a black and white dog and he loves music. He is the perfect companion for Richie who works as principal stagehand for the Philharmonic Orchestra. Jake loves to do doggy things like play fetch in the park but he also loves to listen to music and when Richie takes Jake to a rehearsal at the concert hall Jake is in seventh heaven. He barks in accompaniment with the instruments as the musicians warm up but when the whole orchestra plays together Jake is perfectly quiet. He sits and listens.
When it is time for the real performance to begin Jake proves to everyone that he truly appreciates music and that he is perfectly capable of lending a paw when it is needed.
This charming picture book not only introduces children to a very special dog character but it also introduces them to the orchestra and the instruments that play in the orchestra. Children will be delighted to read how Jake makes a place for himself in a very special world.
This story is based on the true story of Jake Joseph, a dog who is the mascot of the Lincoln Center. Just like the dog in the book, the real Jake is a perfect gentleman and is a valued member of the backstage crew.
