This beautiful picture book is the story of a musical family and two sisters: Isla, the elder, bossy and sure of herself and her talent; and Bea, the younger, trying to find her own perfect instrument that will express her personality.

Her sister has the violin, but Bea struggles to find her own musical gift until a very special cat, Maestro Gus, helps young Bea to find her unique way of making music.

In rhythmic, poetic language (a violin is described as a ‘honey fog machine’), and with equally whimsical and evocative watercolour illustrations, this is a simple but magical tale of finding yourself and your own mode of expression.

This is Caroline Magerl’s fifth picture book, and her most recent, Nop, was a CBCA Honour Book. This lovely story is suitable for ages 3+.

Angela Crocombe is a senior buyer at Readings