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Ballad for Sophie

By Filipe Melo and Juan Cavia
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4.67 goodreads logo

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Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Ballad for Sophie, a graphic novel by Filipe Melo and Juan Cavia, weaves a poignant tale set in post-war Europe about a reclusive, elderly pianist and a young journalist who is eager to uncover his mysterious past. Through their interaction, the story delves into themes of ambition, regret, and redemption, unveiled through stunning artwork and lyrical storytelling.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$6400

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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

Experience a captivating tale that delves into the complex dynamics of a decades-long rivalry between a piano virtuoso and an unexpected interviewer. You'll be drawn to the intricate storytelling and exceptional artwork that beautifully explore themes of ambition, regret, and redemption. If you appreciate evocative graphic novels, this would be a rewarding read.

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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

One of the American Library Association's Top 10 Best Graphic Novels for Adults!

Nominated for four Eisner Awards!

Nominated for two Harvey Awards!

Nominated for five Ringo Awards!

Nominated for the American Cartoonists Society Reuben Award (Graphic Novel Division)!

A young journalist prompts a reclusive piano superstar to open up, resulting in this stunning graphic sonata exploring a lifetime of rivalry, regret, and redemption.

Ballad for Sophie takes you on a journey through time and emotions, blending intriguing narrative with beautiful illustrations.

1933. In the small French village of Cressy-la-Valoise, a local piano contest brings together two brilliant young players - Julien Dubois, the privileged heir of a wealthy family, and François Samson, the janitor's son. One wins, one loses, and both are changed forever.

1997. In a huge mansion stained with cigarette smoke and memories, a bitter old man is shaken by the unexpected visit of an interviewer. Somewhere between reality and fantasy, Julien composes, like in a musical score, a complex and moving story about the cost of success, rivalry, redemption, and flying pianos.

When all is said and done, did anyone ever truly win? And is there any music left to play?

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Ballad for Sophie is highly praised for its captivating narrative and exquisite artistry. Recognised as one of the 2021 Best Graphic Novels for Adults by the American Library Association, the book is celebrated for its emotional depth and dramatic storytelling. Critics commend its intricate balance of artistry and narrative, marking it as a standout, self-assured work full of emotional authenticity and intricate craftsmanship.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781603094986

Publisher: Top Shelf Productions

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 02 November 2021

Country: United States

Imprint: Top Shelf Productions

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 171.0mm

Height: 254.0mm

Weight: 300g

Pages: 320

Collections

Adult Graphic Novels Fiction Filipe Melo Graphic Novels Juan Cavia Penguin Books

About the Author

Filipe Melo is a musician, film director and author. He developed a passion for piano and improvisation from an early age. He studied at Hot Clube de Portugal and later at Berklee College of Music. After many years as a pianist, he also became a composer and an orchestrator. He currently teaches music at ESML, a university in Lisbon. In cinema, he developed several cult projects- I'll See You in My Dreams, Um Mundo Catita and Sleepwalk, as well as commercials and music videos. His books are published in several countries. In the US, he wrote for the Eisner-winning anthology Dark Horse Presents. In 2019, he received a career award from the Amadora BD Festival. Juan Cavia works as an art director and illustrator since 2004. He studied cinema and simultaneously developed skills in illustration and painting from an early age with his mentor, Argentinean artist Carlos Pedrazzini. At the age of 21, he began a career as an art director. Since then, he has made advertisements, TV, music videos, theater and nine feature films, including The Secret in her Eyes by J. Campanella (Oscar-winner for Best Foreign Film).

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