My Symphony [Hardcover]

Mary Engelbreit (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: November 1, 1997 | Age Level: 4 and up

Mary's first original children's book since The Snow Queen has sold 100,000 copies since its debut. She puts her lavish touch to a reverent and radiant poem by nineteenth-century clergyman William Henry Channing. My Symphony, this brief yet powerful verse, lists 18 inspirational ways to live a virtuous life; Mary Engelbreit's 18 original illustrations accompany them and help children visualize how they can grow up strong and pure, too.

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

Engelbreit (The Snow Queen), whose intricately bordered greeting cards and gift items fuel a cottage industry with a loyal following, here puts her artistic hand to Channing's 19th-century poem about living out one's personal potential. "To live content with small means,/ To seek elegance rather than luxury," begins the verse that celebrates peaceful, spiritual simplicity. Engelbreit's subjects run the gamut, from the magical (candy-colored elves, fairies and winking stars) to more down-to-earth human characters, sporting her signature brightly appliqued dresses and Mary Janes. Fans of her style will be tickled at the advent of this perfect-for-gift-giving volume, rather like a greeting card in book form. Those unfamiliar with the artist's work may find much to ponder in Channing's inspirational words. All ages.

Copyright 1997 Cahners Business Information, Inc.

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 4 and up
  
• Hardcover: 48 pages
• Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing (November 1, 1997)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0836236742
• ISBN-13: 978-0836236743
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 7.3 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13.6 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (12 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #868,861 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #37 in Books > Crafts, Hobbies & Home > Expert Advice > Mary Engelbreit

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

11 of 11 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars 4 to 8?? 4 to 80 is more like it:), November 15, 2000

By 

"readertoo" - See all my reviews

This review is from: My Symphony (Hardcover)

I was at the book store browsing for books for my two year old daughter and came across 'My Symphony'. I was drawn to the lovely art on the cover so opened it up and began to read. The poem by W.H. Channing is superb. Simple, elegant, meaningful, touching, humorous, and leaves a lasting impression. (To live content with small means; to seek elegance rather than luxury, and refinement rather than fashion; to be worthy, not respectable; and wealthy not rich, etc). The art work by Mary Engelbreit is a wonderful compliment, page by page, for the poem. As a childrens book I wasn't so certain, but I bought it for myself anyway. I treasure books that inspire me to be my best and this is a graceful and simple version of that. But I still wasn't sure that my daughter, a two year old, would be ready for a book like this. I tried it on her anyway, even though she is a fair amount younger than the four years old suggested. She loves it. She loves the illustrations, she works excitedly to understand the concepts and for the most part gets them. Only the closing lines that refer to spirituality and 'my symphony' lost her and she enjoyed the illustrations anyway. I wasn't an Engelbreit fan at all. My only encounter with her prior to this book was a birthday card I received called 'the queen of everything'. Cute card for sure, but I wasn't aware that the artist illustrated books. Now I adore her work. I ordered her christmas book 'Believe' and I am excited for it to arrive. Engelbreits art seems perfectly suited for the holiday season - traditional and pure, yet fun and fanciful at the same time. I guess you can tell I really liked this book.

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars This book is a toast to life!, February 27, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: My Symphony (Hardcover)

My Symphony is a toast to life! While listed as a children's book, I will be sending it to adult friends. The poem is a gentle reminder of what is important, and the reader must contrast that with what s/he has spent time doing recently. The illustrations enhance the text with a delightful lightheartedness. Thanks, Mary.

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The Book I buy most frequently, June 9, 2000

By A Customer

This review is from: My Symphony (Hardcover)

Because I am a manager of a symphony orchestra, the title and beautiful illustrations were the first attractions for me. Then the poem captured my heart and soul. It has become a daily affirmation for me and during the last three years, it has been my preferred gift for family, children, graduates, new mothers, musical friends and colleagues. I quoted the poem at my brother's funeral, and last week, I read the poem at a memorial in New Orleans honoring a public servant. The book was a gift to his widow.