Customer Reviews

Ability Development from Age Zero (Suzuki Method International)

5 star:		(5)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This book is similar in message to Suzuki's earlier book, "Nurtured by love". Suzuki-humanist and philosopher is more evident here than in that other book. Praise from the parent, developing child's concentration and setting fun tasks that can be accomplished are some of advises on rearing children. Suzuki strongly believes that the real education is at home and therefore advocates for parents' self-reflecting: you reap what you saw, therefore you should strive to be a fine person yourself to raise fine children.

As in "Nurtured by love", some of the life philosophy sounds a bit out of place: "act quickly on what you think", while an excellent advice, should have been tied in with the rest of the book. The same goes for other maxims, such as "do not cheat yourself". Both "Nurtured by Love" and "Ability Development" suffer from the lack of directed studies and critical analysis of much that Suzuki postulates. Intuitively though, his theories sound very appealing, while the great optimism and love for children shine through the imperfections of the books.

The book reads like a somewhat watered-down version of "Nurtured by Love", which I would recommend instead of this one.

I read this book thinking it would give me information about my son starting Suzuki violin. Instead, it spoke only briefly about music lessons, and quite a bit about parenting and nuturing children. I loved Sukuki's thoughts about how important it is to be a good role model for your child. So many parents forget this. This book is easy to read in a weekend. I have gone back to it numerous times. I recommend it to every parent.

Wow! After having read this book, I am truly becoming a better parent and person. Suzuki gives practical sound advice on how to improve yourself and live a beautiful life. I was surprised to get so much out of a book that I thought was going to talk about teaching music to a child. Instead, it changed my life.

Touching, a great learning trip for me as a Suzuki teacher and parent. Good to read again and again.

This is very easy and light reading. It is a glimpse into the heart of the man who proved a good deal regarding education methods. The genuine feelings conveyed by Suzuki in this book refresh the soul...for parents and non-parents.

This is an absolutely ESSENTIAL book for all parents to read - and especially those who enter their children into music lessons with Suzuki Method trained teachers. Dr. Suzuki believed that all children were capable of learning to play music and could benefit from it in all areas of their lives. This book is an easy-to-read book that will guide any parent to encourage their child with love and patience.

Dear Seller,

The great teaching for me and it gives me a power to teach
violin for the little kids!

Gang Jiang
the older brother of Shan Jiang
31 May 2009

I enjoyed this quick read, it is comparable to Suzuki becoming Yoda, and teaching us to see through eyes that will save future generations through music. The truisms are often self-evident, but nice to be reminded of. I completely agree with the underlying emphasis of conscious though and passionate devotion as fodder for developing a musicality born of compassion and sensitivity not limited to the musical staff, but sprouted and spread to the scape of of ones entire lifestyle.