Gombac, Ziga X. Adam and His Tuba. Maja Kastelic, Illus. Translated from the German by Olivia Hellewell. NorthSouth, 02/2023. [32]pp. Picture Book. GRADES Kindergarten – 3. HIGH ADDITIONAL. Trade $18.95. 978-0-7358-4497-1.
Young Adam is part of a family that owns a small circus in what appears to be mid-1900s Europe. Everyone in the family has a talent or skill that suits the circus, such as tightrope walking or breathing fire, but Adam spends his time playing the tuba. When the family hears him play, they realize his talent is a great asset. The message that all types of talent can contribute is refreshing. The burnished sepia illustrations help to set the time period and depict the family as white. First published in Switzerland in 2022 and translated from the German by Olivia Hellewell. Review based on an ARC.
Penny Peck—San Jose State University iSchool