Last year I went a little bit gaga over a book that I truly thought was a standout. And while Cloud and Wallfish by Anne Nesbet didn’t get any of the Newbery love I so craved for it, my admiration for Ms. Nesbet’s work is, was, and ever more shall be through the roof.  Fast forward to this year when her publisher (Candlewick) wonders if I might be interested in doing the cover reveal for the latest Nesbet title. Released in April of 2018 here’s how they described The Orphan Band of Springdale to me:

“it’s set in rural Maine in the early 1940s, is based on a family story about a relative who ran a home for orphans, and includes all-too-current themes of xenophobia and the challenges of belonging to a community. Plus, there’s an entirely relatable nearsighted, good-hearted French horn-playing protagonist—in short, classic Anne.”

The book jacket seen here today is by artist Josie Portillo, who also did the The War That Saved My Life.  Drumroll please . . .

It’s about time the French Horn received its due.

Thanks to Candlewick and to Anne for the reveal.