Adam and His Tuba
A playful book about finding your own path.
Everyone in the circus loves to perform – except for Adam, the youngest member of the Von Trapeze family.
Wherever Adam Von Trapeze’s family circus performs they inspire audiences with their breathtaking feats. Grandma Antonia breathes fire, Uncle Artem builds dizzying human pyramids, and Papa Alexei and Mama Anastasia dance blindfolded on the tightrope.
Only Adam, the youngest of the family, doesn’t show an interest in circus tricks and loud applause. The family is concerned. Where did they go wrong? But one day they are enchanted by the sound of a tuba. And from that day forward, the famous Von Trapeze family circus features a new performer—the one they never expected to be part of the family tradition. And he was a star.
Two of the most famous Slovenian children’s book artists take us into the world of the circus in their first joint work. Ziga X Gombac tells the story of Adam in clear, subtle words. With a reduced palette of warm sepia colors, Maja Kastelic lights up the circus world on and off the stage. Together they plead for trust in one’s own path and encourage us to take our place in the world.
Readers will be left screaming, “Encore!”
Kirkus Reviews
⭐️ Golds and grays underlie the illustrations, vivified by red stripes, flushed cheeks, pink bouquets, and bursts of light; each panel in this heartwarming tale is full of captivating period details.
Foreword Reviews, starred review
Gombac’s clear yet understated nod to the importance of finding one’s own path is sure to strike a note with young readers and may even reassure some caregivers.
Kay Weisman, Booklist
a lovely addition to libraries seeking unusual international fare in books and those needing books on kids who beat their own drum.
School Library Journal
A family of circus performers face a moral reckoning in this playfully illustrated story of acceptance
Publishers Weekly
Warm sepia-colored paintings light up the Von Trapeze’s circus world in this lighthearted story about finding one’s own path.
OmniLibros
The book has beautiful illustrations, to capture the attention and imagination of young children. Highly recommend this wonderful title for any children’s library!
Children's Literature Reviews
Adam and His Tuba conveys a touching message of how everyone can contribute to something in their own way if given a chance. The illustrations are masterful and original offering the superb feeling of an old time circus.
Kiss the Book Blog
a beautifully illustrated empathetic tale which will make a perfect class read
Just Imagine
- USBBY Outstanding International Book, 2024
- Foreword Indies Book Award, finalist, April 2024
