The One About the Blackbird is a gorgeous, high-quality children's book about a boy and his grandfather bonding over their love and appreciation of music. The book provides a beautiful entry point for discussing relationships with our older family members, and it could easily be used to discuss and explain dementia to young children. I will definitely be purchasing this book when it comes out, as it's gorgeous illustrations and beautiful dialogue lends itself well to a lower elementary space. This book could also be paired beautifully with the song Blackbird by the Beatles. I will note that some of the text was difficult to read due to the font colour being white on sometimes light yellows or greens, which detracted slightly. I'm hoping it was just on screen, and the in person book is easier to read. Thank you so much to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book!

This is such a touching story about the love between a grandfather and grandson, and the healing element of music. As a young boy, Jack likes listening to his grandfather play guitar and requests the one about the blackbird (I assume this refers to the Beatles song). When Jack grows up, his grandfather is suffering dementia and Jack becomes his guide, helping him remember how to hold and play the guitar. I was an emotional wreck after reading this, but what a lovely story about the power of love! We should all have a grandfather like Jack's.

Netgalley ARC- Oh this was so touching! I think the full circle moment and tenderness of the reversing roles as the characters age makes the ending hit extra hard. Highly recommend.

A sweet, full-circle story of a boy and his grandfather, The One About the Blackbird was a journey through time and musical connection.

I loved the concept behind this book. As a musician and teacher of it, I am always appreciative of the power of music. I enjoyed how so much of the book was beautiful and engaging, the illustrations serving the text wonderfully without overpowering the message.

A few things fell a little flat for me though, (musical pun unintended). The introduction of Jack and his grandfather didn't quite ring true, and the ending didn't pack quite the punch I was expecting. Still, it was a lovely read, and a moving theme.

Thank you to Tundra Book Group and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.

4 stars