“Absorbing history. . . . Examining the effect of the Great Depression, the World Wars and immigration on these family businesses vibrantly contextualizes those issues for kids. Numerous well-captioned photos and period illustrations, sidebars and clearly labeled diagrams of the musical instruments expertly extend the text.” –Kirkus Reviews
“A handsome, clearly written book on a topic seldom presented to young people.”–Booklist
“From the country music of Bill Monroe and the classics of John Phillip Sousa to the jazz of drummer Buddy Rich and rock-and-roll legends John Bonham and guitarist Eric Clapton–readers will enjoy this back stage pass to the history of American musical instrument makers.”–Voice of Youth Advocates