51 pages • 1 hour read
The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto
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Book Brief
368
Novel • Fiction
World • 20th Century
2012
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto by Mitch Albom tells the story of a guitarist named Frankie Presto, narrated largely by the personification of "Music." Born in Spain during the Spanish Civil War, Frankie is adopted after losing his mother. He learns music from a mysterious maestro, travels to America, rises to fame, and struggles with love, loss, and redemption, using magical guitar strings that change color when he impacts others' lives.
Emotional
Inspirational
Bittersweet
Nostalgic
Fantastical
Reviews & Readership
60,571 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto by Mitch Albom is a captivating novel that blends music, history, and fantasy. Praised for its imaginative narrative and deep emotional resonance, the book follows the life of a gifted guitarist shaped by his extraordinary talent. However, some reviews mention that the story can feel sentimental or predictable. Overall, it’s a heartfelt tale that celebrates the power of music.
Who Should Read The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto?
A reader who enjoys The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto by Mitch Albom is likely enchanted by music, soulful narratives, and profound life lessons. They appreciate emotionally rich stories similar to The Book Thief by Markus Zusak and The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern, where magical realism intertwines with deep human experiences.
60,571 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Music
Music
The novel's narrator and a character who presents himself as a timeless talent hovering around newborns, offering them a choice of gifts; he has complex feelings towards Frankie.
Aurora York
Aurora York
Frankie's lifelong love interest, characterized as a free spirit with a complicated past, who desires for Frankie to follow his heart rather than the pressures of fame.
Baffa Rubio
Baffa Rubio
Frankie's adoptive father, a faithful sardine factory owner who unconditionally loves Frankie and ensures his future in America by sacrificing his savings.
El Maestro (Carlos Andrés Presto)
El Maestro (Carlos Andrés Presto)
An influential person in Frankie's life and a gifted guitar player, who unknowingly acts as his father-figure and mentor in music while overcoming personal tragedies.
368
Novel • Fiction
World • 20th Century
2012
Adult
18+ years
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