Lenox — On Saturday, August 2, from 3 to 4 p.m., the Lenox Library will welcome beloved children’s author James Howe for a special all-ages event celebrating the release of his newest picture book, “The Music Inside Us,” published by Abrams Books for Young Readers. Best known for his classic “Bunnicula” series, Howe’s latest work is a beautifully illustrated biography of world-renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma, created in collaboration with award-winning artist Jack Wong.
In this thoughtful and inspiring book, Howe invites readers to see Ma’s story not only as one of musical brilliance but as a deeply human journey shaped by self-reflection, a deep curiosity about the world, and a commitment to making the world a better place. Across 50 whimsical pages, “The Music Inside Us” encourages children to reflect on their own unique gifts and how they might develop them—not just in terms of talent, but in finding meaning, purpose, and connection.
While acknowledging Ma’s unique opportunities and extraordinary abilities, the book focuses especially on the inner questions that guided his path: “Who am I? What if I am more than the obedient son or the cellist the world expects me to be?” As the narrative follows Ma into college and adulthood, it emphasizes not only his concert career and successes but also his generosity, teaching, and commitment to using music as a bridge between cultures.
Inspired by a college anthropology course, Ma’s passion for understanding the role of music in human life ultimately led to the creation of the Silk Road Project, which celebrates musical traditions from around the world and explores the ways different peoples and cultures can create harmony together.
Although Yo-Yo Ma is not directly involved with the book, the timing of the event coincides with his August 2 and 3 performances at Tanglewood, offering a unique and timely opportunity to reflect on his life and legacy.
Open to families, educators, music lovers, and readers of all ages, this event promises an engaging conversation with one of children’s literature’s most treasured voices. James Howe’s visit to Lenox is more than a book launch—it is a celebration of imagination, empathy, and the music we carry within us all.
