Private Lessons by Cynthia Salaysay
Published by Candlewick Press on May 12, 2020
ISBN: 1536209600
Pages: 320
Genres: Realistic Fiction
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads

A cautionary tale, that allows the reader to become immersed in the world of classical music. Claire Alalay, the main character, desperately wants to attend a college for classical music. To increase her chances of winning scholarships, Claire begins taking piano classes from Paul Avon. The book uses a slow pace to build the mounting feelings of anxiety that Claire feels as it becomes more and more important to earn Paul’s praise. In the end, this student-teacher relationship veers into sexual assault. The book dealt with the sexual assault well enough and I appreciated that it didn’t end there but allowed the reader to see Claire reclaiming herself. The one issue this book has is overly descriptive writing. If you love classical music or play a classical instrument then I’m sure the writing would be more engaging. If you aren’t a fan of classical music then this book will be hard to get through. Recommended for ages 14-18.

Reviewed by Sophie Gagnon, Skidompha Public Library