Panel by Panel Graphic Novel Book Club

Join us to discuss Ballad for Sophie by Filipe Melo and Juan Cavia:

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.

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?

Registration is required, and books will be provided for participants. If you don't need a physical copy, just note when you sign up that you won't need the library to provide one. If you have any questions, please contact Sophia McKissick at smckissick@tcpl.org.