Review – Because

Because by Mo Willems, Amber Ren (Illustrator)
Published by Hyperion on 2019
Genres: Picture Book
Format: Hardcover
Source: Personal book collection

Because one person was inspired to compose beautiful music, because a group of people played that music for an audience, because a team of people prepared the music hall and sold tickets, because a ticket was purchased, because a concert was attended, a young girl was inspired to pursue a career in music.

That is the premise of Because by Mo Willems, illustrated by Amber Ren (Hyperion, 2019) Beautifully told and illustrated, this story reminds us of the many steps in a pathway to inspiration and achievement, and the way each individual has a role to play in creating something beautiful that inspires others.

The story shares the pathway from Franz Schubert’s music (including Schubert being himself inspired by Beethoven), through the many people involved in the staging, organisation and promotion of a musical performance, to the way hearing the music for the first time ignited a passion in a young girl to become a musician and conductor. There is a reminder that inspiration needs to be paired with hard work and dedication, and that achieving dreams is a collaborative process which in turn can inspire others.

I have several Mo Willems books on my shelves, but these are all humorous stories such as Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus and That is NOT a Good idea. Because is just as brilliant, but a very different style of story. It’s a very encouraging and aspirational story, that includes the practicalities of making a dream a reality as well as celebrating the way music can connect with listeners in very personal and inspirational ways.