"Dr. Fuddle and the Gold Baton" by Warren L. Woodruff

About the book: When the dark musician Jedermann and his fierce Seirens of Dis gain control of the legendary Gold Baton, Tyler, his sister Christina, and their friends are drawn into a perilous adventure foretold by an ancient prophecy.  Guided by the mythical Dr. Fuddle, the explorers must leave earth and journey to Orphea. Will the Messengers of Music be able to save the world of the immortal composers from chaos and destruction? For them to have even a chance at victory, they must master the most difficult instruments of all—themselves. Both children and adults can enjoy this delightful tale of the beauty and power of music. Both educational and entertaining, readers are drawn into an experience with composers, instruments and music that are in the end victorious.


Review:  Children of all ages would enjoy this book, but it is especially suitable for upper elementary readers.  This novel is a wonderful mix of fantasy and information about classical musicians and their works.  The book reminds me in many ways of the C.S. Lewis’ Narnia books or the mystical world of Harry Potter.

The story centers around Tyler and his sister Christian along with three of their friends who have been swept into a perilous adventure foretold by an ancient prophecy.  Dr Fuddle guides The Messengers of Music as they work to be able to save the world of the immortal composers from chaos and certain disaster.  To be victorious, the explorers must master the musical instruments they have been chosen to play, but more importantly, they must learn to master themselves.

Throughout the novel the reader is introduced to famous classical composers from ages past as well as a myriad of instruments and musical terms.  The reader finds him/herself learning much about music history and theory through the pages of this book.  I would recommend this book with the warning that the reader needs to be aware that it indeed is a fantasy filled with beings and notions that are not reality in this world. (reviewed by J. La Tour)

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy of Dr. Fuddle and the Gold Baton was provided by the author, Warren L. Woodruff to facilitate our review. Opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer.