Zin! Zin! Zin!

Starred review from February 27, 1995
This debut book by author Moss, As kids today would say is boss.Its clever, jazzy verse presents(In language that is never dense)A helpful intro to each orchestra instrument -How some are alike, but rather more are different.He starts with the trombone's "mournful moan,"Playing solo (i.e., alone);Then adds a trumpet, French horn and cello-All sounding forth a signature "hello."Each musical portrait (in quatrains) aboundsWith perfectly chosen, alliterative sounds.Thus the flute, notes Moss, "sends our soul a-shiver;Flute, that slender silver sliver."And Priceman's zany art's just right, With loose-limbed figures taking flightAround each spread in garb bizarre-As if proving how funky musicians are.With every new instrument joining the throngOf diligent players practicing song, Moss incorporates numbers and stops only whenHis team finally reaches a "chamber group of ten."So the book can be used as a counting tool(A great way to perk up a dull day at school): But it really works best, it's easy to see, As a deft means of meeting the symphony.So plentiful praise to this finely matched pair,Whose pictures and words show unusual flair.