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Reviewed by Lisa Kirby

Title: The Case of Beethoven’s Bandit

Author: T.A. Sigafus

Publisher: Clairborne Publishing (2006)

Hardcover: $12.99

ASIN: B000WS76MA

Whether or not your interests include music, The Case of Beethoven’s Bandit is a book that will engage readers with laughter and suspense. I met the author, T.A. (Terri) Sigafus, and had the pleasure of spending a couple of hours with her at the 2007 Missouri Writer’s Guild Conference in St. Charles, Missouri. I found her to be an extremely charming and sweet person. Also a talented musician, Terri plays the cello and she shares her love for music through her writing. (She and her husband, Chad, create acoustic, folk-inspired children’s music.)

In The Case of Beethoven’s Bandit, Sigafus mixes mystery and music for an entertaining story. The Little Maestros—Gert, Alexander, Wallaby, and Gracie—and their conductor, Madam Macaroni, receive a piece of music from their friend Professor Podges. The music contains a hidden message. The children can’t find Professor Podges, so they search for him and the pieces of Beethoven’s unfinished tenth symphony.

The mystery is written in an entertaining way and children are taught a little about music in a subtle manner as they read this enchanting book. The characters are endearing and well crafted. My granddaughter and I read the book together. We read only a couple chapters each time she spent the night, and she was excited about starting each new chapter. We found ourselves laughing together often throughout the story.

Terri talked about how she conceived the idea for the four main characters in her book. Four of her students in the private lessons she conducted were cut-ups and the Little Maestros were created. Having met Terri, I even noticed resemblances between Madame Macaroni and Terri. (Gotta love her!)

The book is a wonderful read and I look forward to reading more of Terri’s books. Be sure to pick up The Case of Beethoven’s Bandit and curl up and enjoy!

Visit Terri’s websites at www.tasigafus.com and Meet the Little Maestros.

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Need some fun ideas for the kids? Or maybe family resources like stories, crafts, tips, and simple snack ideas? Visit Lisa Kirby’s blog at familyfunandfood.blogspot.com for ideas on bringing your family together, having fun, and living a more simple life.