A Magical Tale of Music, Mystery, and Self-Discovery
Kate DeMaio’s Fiona and the Forgotten Piano is a whimsical and enchanting middle-grade novel that blends music, mystery, and adventure into a heartfelt story. It follows 11-year-old Fiona Duet, a girl with an insatiable curiosity and a deep connection to music, as she unravels the secrets hidden within the enigmatic Fermata Woods. What starts as innocent curiosity soon turns into an unforgettable journey filled with magical worlds, charming creatures, and the echoes of a past waiting to be uncovered.
Plot Summary (Without Spoilers!)
Fiona has always been warned to stay away from Fermata Woods, but when she hears an eerie and beautiful melody coming from deep within the trees, she can’t resist following it. What she finds is beyond anything she could have imagined—a forgotten piano, its keys dusty and silent, yet brimming with an unknown magic.
As Fiona touches the keys, the music seems to unlock portals to different worlds, each more extraordinary than the last. With the help of some unexpected allies—including Ferris, a talking frog with a mischievous streak, and Nori, an axolotl with a wealth of knowledge—she embarks on a journey to uncover the piano’s forgotten past and its connection to her own family history.
But the deeper she delves into this mystery, the more she realizes that some secrets are buried for a reason. As she navigates these strange new lands, Fiona must confront old melodies, lost memories, and the power of music itself to find her way home.
What Makes This Book Stand Out?
🎵 A Unique Take on Fantasy
Rather than relying on traditional fantasy elements like wizards or dragons, Fiona and the Forgotten Piano centers around the magic of music. The idea that melodies can open doorways to different worlds is beautifully executed, making this story feel fresh and immersive. DeMaio’s descriptions of the various worlds Fiona encounters are rich and vivid, making it easy for readers to get lost in the adventure.
🎼 Music as a Central Theme
Music is not just background noise in this novel—it drives the story forward. Whether it’s the mystical sounds of the forgotten piano, the songs of the trees in Fermata Woods, or Fiona’s own understanding of rhythm and harmony, music is woven into the very fabric of the book. This will especially resonate with readers who have a love for music or play an instrument themselves.
🐸 Quirky and Lovable Characters
Fiona is a relatable protagonist—curious, brave, and sometimes a little stubborn. Her journey is about more than just solving a mystery; it’s about self-discovery and embracing the unknown.
The side characters bring plenty of charm and humor. Ferris, the sarcastic frog, adds comic relief, while Nori, the wise axolotl, provides insight and guidance. The contrast between their personalities makes their interactions fun and engaging.
🔥 Themes of Family, Memory, and Belonging
Beneath the adventure and magic, this book explores deeper emotional themes. Fiona’s journey isn’t just about discovering the piano’s secret—it’s about understanding her past, her family’s history, and where she truly belongs. Readers will find themselves reflecting on their own relationships and the memories that shape them.
Engaging for Both Kids and Adults
Many middle-grade books are enjoyable for their target audience but feel simplistic to older readers. Fiona and the Forgotten Piano strikes a perfect balance, offering a compelling mystery, emotional depth, and clever humor that both children and adults can appreciate.
Room for Improvement?
While the book is a delightful read, a few elements could have been further developed:
- More Backstory on the Piano’s Origin – While we learn about its significance, some readers might wish for a deeper dive into its history and the people who first played it.
- A Slightly Faster Start – The first few chapters take their time setting up Fiona’s world and her longing for adventure. Once the story enters the woods, however, the pace picks up significantly.
Final Verdict: A Must-Read for Young Fantasy Fans
⭐ Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
Fiona and the Forgotten Piano is a beautifully crafted tale that mixes adventure, fantasy, and music into a spellbinding read. It’s perfect for young readers who enjoy magical realism, and even adults will find themselves enchanted by its whimsical storytelling. Kate DeMaio’s debut novel establishes her as an exciting new voice in middle-grade fiction, and we can only hope for more stories from her in the future.
Recommended for:
✔ Fans of Coraline by Neil Gaiman or The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
✔ Readers who love mystical adventures with a heartfelt message
✔ Kids (and adults!) who have a deep appreciation for music’s magical power
Author: Kate DeMaio
Genre: Middle-Grade Fantasy
Pages: 256
Age Group: 8-12
📖 Final Thought: If you’ve ever felt that music can unlock doors to another world, then Fiona and the Forgotten Piano is a book you won’t want to miss!
