Books
The PianoZen method has inspired a range of other creative projects including a novel and a series of children's books that are currently in production.
Piano Zen - a novel. For adult and older YA readers.
Piano Zen is a fantasy story about an eleven-year-old boy named William Longfellow Emerson who takes piano lessons with a friendly but eccentric Piano Zen teacher named Rosa Carreño. Rosa lives and teaches Piano Zen lessons in the Gate Lodge high up in Imperial Heights above the City of Nightingale. Piano Zen is a secretive piano society whose origins trace back to early 18th century Tibet. When Rosa rings her Tibetan Bowl during William’s piano lessons, something magical seems to happen and William finds himself transported into a dream world called the Whispering Woods of the Tall Pines. In the dream world he meets interesting anthropomorphic animal characters and master piano teachers representing the Four Elements of Earth, Air, Water, and Fire. These Elements Masters live and teach in mysterious temples and palaces. The story follows William’s adventures in both the real world and the dream world.
Reviews
"This was an interesting fantasy read. It was a very unique tale and the musical angle makes it stand out from the crowd. As an amateur musician, I found that aspect of the story really enjoyable. The main character of William is likable, making the story that much more enjoyable. The author is very descriptive regarding both the real world and the story world, painting a vivid picture of both for the reader.I enjoyed the book and would recommend it for a unique fantasy read!"
Nellie H. Steele author of the Cate Kensie Mystery Series and the Shadow Slayers Fantasy Series.
"Piano Zen is the sort of story that encourages readers to think and learn. I did not find it to be a fast read and instead wanted to take my time, especially since William never hurried through anything. It introduces a very interesting teaching method and I loved how it wove music and mindfulness together. This is quite unlike most stories I’ve read, and I loved it for that reason. But I also loved it because it allowed me to indulge in my own love for music, both listening and playing, and offered some of my favorite fantasy elements. Overall, I found this to be quite entertaining and instructive."
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The Lily Cafe Book Blog www.thelilycafe.com
"I really loved this book. It surprised me honestly. The story is beautiful. The book goes back and forth between real life and dreams. The author includes vivid descriptions that swept me away. It was a captivating read and a positive story. Truly inspiring!"
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Elizabeth H. - review from Goodreads