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The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto
- Narrated by: Mitch Albom, Roger McGuinn, Ingrid Michaelson, John Pizzarelli, Paul Stanley, George Guidall, Mike Hodge
- Length: 9 hrs and 43 mins
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The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto
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Summary
At nine years old, Frankie Presto is sent to America in the bottom of a boat. His only possession is an old guitar and six precious strings.
But Frankie's talent is unique, and his amazing journey weaves him through the musical landscape of the 20th century, from classical to jazz to rock and roll, with his stunning talent affecting numerous stars along the way, including Hank Williams, Elvis Presley, Carole King and even KISS.
Frankie becomes a pop star himself. He makes records. He is adored. But his gift is also his burden, as he realizes that through his music, he can actually affect people's futures - with one string turning blue whenever a life is altered. At the height of his popularity, Frankie Presto vanishes. His legend grows. Only decades later does he reappear to change one last life....
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What listeners say about The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto
Average customer ratingsReviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.
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- D. Menashy
- 29-11-15
Magic indeed; totally enchanting.
If ever an audiobok was made just for me this is the one. It has elements of fantasy, a love for music in general and guitar-music in particular just streams out of it.
The story of a young penniless Spanish kid who is brought up during the Spanish Civil War and is taught guitar (in all styles) by a blind master. The boy then travels to the USA, becomes a master musician himself and contrives to get involved with Duke Ellington, Elvis, The Beatles and countless other musical icons. Beautifully written & lovingly narrated by an ensemble of readers, some of whom are real life musicians (Jim McGuin of the Byrds etc) who feature in the story itself.
A moving story that absolutely hits the sweet-spot dead-centre for me (a 59 year-old still struggling to play very basic guitar but persevering none-the-less).
A bonus is that there is a soundtrack album out too, or just access the Spotify playlist via the author's website - you can hear many of the tunes that feature in the story, including some stunningly lovely Spanish guitar.
I tend to be enthusiastic about the books I review - this one is extra special and heartily recommended.
3 people found this helpful
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- Carole Azzopardi
- 16-12-21
Masterpiece
Really didn't want this book to finish. Mitch Albom is in a league all of his own. He gives hope and a warmth that touches the soul through his words. Thank you .
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- Louisa
- 13-04-21
Just loved every minute
I didn’t want this book to end. It’s carried me through the last few weeks of lockdown and made me smile and laugh out loud. So clever and I think now my favourite Mitch Albom book.
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
- Di
- 11-04-20
Excellent
Really enjoyed this book and the intertwining of all the musical artists - brilliant!
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- sandonplace
- 14-04-19
Amazing
This story is so unusual as you would expect from Mitch highly recommended to anyone who enjoys guessing till the end x
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- jv
- 13-03-19
Intriguing linked up story.
A well narrated story which links time and people in a unique way. There is a real journey through music and musicians. It's a lovely story with highs and lows. Very well narrated. a pleasant story, which makes you search your own soul. Unique and easy listening.
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- A. Cooper
- 22-04-18
Magical strings, magical story
Absolutely loved this book. The twists and turns of Frankie Presto's life are beautifully presented from a variety of narrative perspectives. I would definitely recommend this.
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- darbs1987
- 01-04-18
another albom classic
man cannot write a bad story. can't wait for another story. recommend if you love music with a human touch.
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- Steve Harris
- 21-12-17
Wonderful Listen - highly recommended
A very unusual book but one that music lovers will enjoy. The story is told by 'music' himself and at times it is hard not to believe that Frankie is a real artist as he touches the lives of real musicians. The fantasy elements take the story to another level.
"Everyone joins a band in this life". Readers of this book are one such band. Enjoy it.
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- cyndy foard
- 27-07-17
He does it again!
There was absolutely nothing I disliked about this book.
Mitch albom is amazing!!
Even better because it was narrated by the man himself
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- Batman
- 07-09-16
Original and beautifully told
This book was definitely one of the most original stories, and so well woven into modern music that it is believable. Mitch Album is quite the storyteller. It is such a gift and a pleasure to listen to.