Lentil
In Robert McCloskey's charming tale 'Lentil', meet a curious little boy who has a knack for music—only his trumpet playing isn't quite what he envisions. As Lentil faces the amusing challenge of mastering his instrument, he finds unexpected adventures and friendships in his sleepy town. The story unfolds with whimsical illustrations that capture the essence of childhood exploration and the joy of creativity. Just when he thinks he’s out of his depth, Lentil stumbles upon a moment that showcases his true gifts. Will Lentil's musical journey resonate with the townspeople, and can he learn that true talent often lies in heart and effort?
By Robert McCloskey
Published: 1978
""Lentil may not be the loudest or the most impressive, but with a gentle heart and an unwavering spirit, he shows us that greatness lies not in grand gestures, but in the quiet courage to be oneself.""
Start Listening
What Readers Say About This Book
Young Lentil wants to learn to sing, but no matter how hard he tries he can’t sing on key. He can’t even pucker his lips to whistle! So Lentil learns to play the harmonica instead and beautifully carries his tune through the winding streets of Alto, Ohio. Lentil masters his craft just as the beloved Colonel Carter returns to town and the Alto residents decide to plan a special celebration. But Old Sneep, the grouchiest man in town, doesn’t want anyone celebrating Colonel Carter’s homecoming. When Old Sneep stops the welcoming parade in its tracks, Lentil’s music turns out to be just what Alto needs. Robert McCloskey, the Caldecott-winning author and illustrator of Make Way for Ducklings, brings readers this delightful two color picture book.
The Mike & Casey Show
Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts
Key Points from Lentil
About the Author
Robert McCloskey
Robert McCloskey was an American author and illustrator, best known for his beloved children's books, particularly 'Make Way for Ducklings' and 'Blueberries for Sal.' Born on September 15, 1914, McCloskey's writing is characterized by its gentle narratives, charming illustrations, and deep appreciation for nature and family life. His work often reflects themes of childhood adventure and the simple joys of rural life, earning him recognition as a master of children's literature. McCloskey's ability to capture the innocence and curiosity of young readers has made his stories timeless classics.
Book Details
Key information about the book.
- Authors
- Robert McCloskey
- Published
- April 1978
- Publisher
- Penguin
- ISBN
- 0140502874
- Language
- English
- Pages
- 66
- Genres
- FictionPicture BooksEarly Readers
Purchase Options
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Similar books you might like →
The Intelligent Investor
Benjamin Graham
The Black Swan: Second Edition
Nassim Nicholas Taleb
Where the Wild Things Are
Maurice Sendak
Cultural Strategy
Douglas Holt, Douglas Cameron
Misbehaving
Extreme You
Sarah Robb O'Hagan
Be Here Now
Ram Dass
Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?
Bill Martin, Jr.
Democracy for Realists
Christopher H. Achen, Larry M. Bartels
A Million Little Pieces
James Frey
Death of a Salesman
Arthur Miller
The Age of Giant Corporations
Robert Sobel
Dog Man 1-3
Dav Pilkey
Time Travel
James Gleick
Find Me Unafraid
Kennedy Odede, Jessica Posner
The Day the Crayons Quit
Drew Daywalt
Bachelor Nation
Amy Kaufman
Without You, There Is No Us
Suki Kim
A Sound of Thunder and Other Stories
Ray Bradbury
Swallows and Amazons
Arthur Ransome
300 Arguments
Sarah Manguso
Car
Harry Crews
Secondhand Time
Svetlana Alexievich
Dereliction of Duty
H. R. McMaster
The Happiness Curve
Jonathan Rauch
The Midnight Fox
Betsy Byars
Hue 1968-Signed Edition Bn
Gun, with Occasional Music
Jonathan Lethem
Take your reading experience to the next level
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
Book Collections you might like →
Alex Lieberman's Book Recommendations
Alex Lieberman is the co-founder and executive chairman of Morning Brew, a media company that delivers engaging business news. Under his leadership, Morning Brew has grown to reach millions of subscribers, becoming a significant player in modern business journalism. Lieberman is also known for his insightful commentary on entrepreneurship and media trends. His work has significantly influenced the way business news is consumed by younger audiences. Beyond Morning Brew, Lieberman frequently writes and speaks about the intersection of media and technology, further cementing his role as a thought leader in the industry.
View Collection
Anderson Cooper's Book Recommendations
Anderson Cooper is an esteemed American journalist and television personality, best known for anchoring "Anderson Cooper 360°" on CNN. He has gained widespread recognition for his incisive reporting on major global events, earning multiple Emmy Awards for his work. Cooper is also an accomplished author, having penned the best-selling memoir "Dispatches from the Edge," which chronicles his experiences covering some of the world's most perilous conflicts and disasters. His literary contributions extend to "The Rainbow Comes and Goes," a poignant dialogue with his mother, Gloria Vanderbilt, that explores themes of family and resilience. Through his work in both journalism and literature, Cooper has made a significant impact on contemporary media and storytelling.
View Collection
Brad Feld's Book Recommendations
Brad Feld is a prominent American entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author known for his influential work in the startup ecosystem. Co-founder of the Foundry Group, he has played a pivotal role in funding and mentoring early-stage technology companies. Feld is also a key figure behind the Techstars accelerator program, which has helped launch numerous successful startups. As an author, he has penned several essential books on entrepreneurship and venture capital, including "Venture Deals" and "Startup Communities," which provide invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors. His writings and active blogging have cemented his reputation as a thought leader in the tech and startup communities.
View Collection
Lena Dunham's Book Recommendations
Lena Dunham is an acclaimed writer, director, and actress, best known for creating and starring in the HBO series "Girls," which garnered widespread critical acclaim and several awards, including two Golden Globes. In literature, she is the author of the bestselling memoir "Not That Kind of Girl: A Young Woman Tells You What She's 'Learned'," which offers candid insights into her life and experiences. Dunham has also contributed essays to various prominent publications, showcasing her distinctive voice and sharp wit. Her work often explores themes of feminism, identity, and the complexities of modern womanhood. Beyond her creative endeavors, Dunham is a vocal advocate for mental health awareness and women’s rights.
View Collection
Michelle Obama's Book Recommendations
Michelle Obama is an American attorney, author, and former First Lady of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. She is widely recognized for her advocacy on issues such as education, military families, healthy eating, and poverty awareness. Her memoir, "Becoming," published in 2018, has been a global bestseller and acclaimed for its insightful and inspiring narrative. Michelle Obama has also launched initiatives like "Let’s Move!" to combat childhood obesity and the "Reach Higher" campaign to encourage higher education. Her work continues to influence and empower millions around the world.
View Collection
Brian Armstrong's Book Recommendations
Brian Armstrong is a renowned entrepreneur and author best known for co-founding and leading Coinbase, a major cryptocurrency exchange. His literary contributions include insightful writings on the future of digital currencies and blockchain technology. Armstrong's work has been pivotal in demystifying complex financial systems for a broader audience. Beyond his business acumen, his thought leadership in publications and public speaking engagements has cemented his status as a key voice in the fintech revolution. His dedication to innovation continues to influence the trajectory of global financial systems.
View Collection
Adam Gazzaley's Book Recommendations
Adam Gazzaley is a renowned neuroscientist and author known for his groundbreaking work in cognitive neuroscience, particularly in the realms of attention and memory. He is the founding director of the Neuroscape Lab at the University of California, San Francisco, where he pioneers innovative approaches to brain health, including video game-based therapies. Gazzaley co-authored the influential book "The Distracted Mind: Ancient Brains in a High-Tech World," which explores the impact of modern technology on our cognitive capabilities. His work has earned him numerous accolades, including the Society for Neuroscience's Young Investigator Award. Gazzaley's contributions have significantly advanced our understanding of how technology can both challenge and enhance cognitive function.
View Collection
Books That Became Blockbusters
The Books That Became Blockbusters collection showcases stories that captivated readers and audiences alike, transforming into iconic films and series. Starting with Dune, this epic tale of power and destiny in a desert world has thrilled both book lovers and moviegoers with its sweeping scale and intricate politics. All the Light We Cannot See brings World War II-era France to life, with a heart-wrenching story that resonates both on the page and on screen. For romance enthusiasts, The Notebook and The Time Traveler’s Wife explore love that transcends time and circumstances, while The Fault in Our Stars offers a poignant portrayal of young love facing insurmountable odds. The Three-Body Problem and A Game of Thrones are perfect for fans of science fiction and fantasy, with complex plots that have sparked successful adaptations on both streaming and cable platforms. Fight Club and The Great Gatsby delve into the darker sides of human nature, becoming cinematic masterpieces that continue to spark conversation. The Martian combines survival with humor in a thrilling Mars adventure, while Ready Player One immerses readers in a futuristic world filled with virtual reality and pop culture. Lastly, The Hunger Games delivers a dystopian saga of rebellion and survival that has become a cultural phenomenon. This collection is ideal for those who enjoy seeing their favorite books brought to life in theaters and on TV.
View Collection
Amelia Boone's Book Recommendations
Amelia Boone is a renowned American obstacle racer and ultrarunner, celebrated for her remarkable achievements in the sport. She has won multiple world championships, including the Spartan Race World Championship and the World's Toughest Mudder. Boone's compelling personal journey and resilience have inspired countless athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Though primarily known for her athletic prowess, Boone has also contributed to literature through insightful articles and motivational writings on endurance, mental toughness, and overcoming adversity. Her story continues to influence and empower individuals striving for excellence in both sports and life.
View Collection
Mindy Kaling's Book Recommendations
Mindy Kaling is an American actress, comedian, writer, and producer, best known for her work on The Office, where she played Kelly Kapoor and served as a writer and producer. Kaling has since created and starred in her own shows, including The Mindy Project and Never Have I Ever, earning critical acclaim for her unique voice and humor. She is also the author of several best-selling memoirs, where she shares her insights on Hollywood, identity, and personal growth. Kaling is a trailblazer for women of color in entertainment, using her platform to tell diverse and authentic stories. Her contributions to television and film have made her a significant figure in comedy and media.
View Collection“"Lentil may not be the loudest or the most impressive, but with a gentle heart and an unwavering spirit, he shows us that greatness lies not in grand gestures, but in the quiet courage to be oneself."”
Lentil
By Robert McCloskey
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore Our Catalogue
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.