Reviewer Ellen Greiss Alexander: Ellen is an accomplished musician, mother of two and the author of seven music books, five teen novels (including her four book series, The Prefab Four) and a book of lyrical poetry. You can contact Ellen or read samples of her books at www.theprefabfour.com.
Author: Rick D. Niece
ISBN: 978-1-58985-094-1
Publisher: Five Star Publications
Author: Rick D. Niece
ISBN: 978-1-58985-094-1
Publisher: Five Star Publications
The title, The Band Plays On: Going Home for a Music Man's Encore, pretty much sums up this heartfelt tribute written by Rick D. Niece about his memories of growing up in small town DeGraff, Ohio. I have never personally been there but, after reading this book, I truly feel like I have. The similarities to my own childhood struck me from the very first written words: "Small towns live by tradition." Just like the author, I played in my school's marching band. In fact, my Dad also conducted the band on occasion. I even had a paper route and delivered papers on my trusty old Schwinn. I didn't know everybody in my town and we certainly never left our doors open at night but I can still identify with the closeness of neighbors and the lifelong friends I made in my own little town.
The Band Plays On starts with a phone call from a friend wanting to start an alumni band honoring the school's band director, Lewis (the author's father). A well beloved figure in his small town, Lewis Niece, Jr. was quite the character. A man of humble beginnings Lewis worked hard, was full of 'clever' one-liners ("worthless as teats on a boar") and was generous to a fault. It was no wonder that so many people were willing to shake up their busy lives to go back to their hometown, even embarrass themselves, in order to show their respect to such a warm and loving man.
Most of the book delves into the author's childhood memories - the local shops and their colorful owners; his friends and teachers all of whom left indelible marks on his (and the town's) life; his forays into sports; his pets; and the musical journey that led him to become a baritone horn player. The black and white photos at the back of the book captured some of those special moments in time and were as touching as the very descriptions they immortalized. Readers will likely be inspired to remember their own childhood memories as I was told over and over again after writing my book, Life Songs.
The Band Plays On is a feel-good book, a very quick and satisfying read and certainly a must-read for anyone who understands the meaning of tradition.