Jeremy's Decision

Ethel M. King-Shaw is a professor emeritus of curriculum and instruction
at the University of Calgary.

This delightful story about Jeremy’s future career decision will
appeal to primary-grade children.

Jeremy’s father was the distinguished conductor of a large symphony
orchestra. The family attended his concerts regularly. Jeremy was
frequently asked if he was going to be a famous musician or a conductor
like his father. As with young boys his age, Jeremy had not decided what
career he wanted to pursue, and he became uncomfortable with the
persistent question. Although he enjoyed music a great deal, he was also
very interested and knowledgeable about dinosaurs. Finally, when a
reporter observed the book Jeremy was reading and questioned his
interest in dinosaurs, Jeremy discovered what he really wanted to be was
a paleontologist, not a conductor.

Jeremy’s quandry and the events leading to his decision are described
with sensitivity and an understanding that children and their parents
will appreciate. Characterizations, complemented by amusing and
descriptive illustrations, are highly credible. In addition to the
real-life characters, there is much imagery—violins sang, kettledrums
rumbled, and flutes tootled and trilled. As Jeremy’s imagination is
aroused, so too can readers visualize giant dinosaurs fighting, playing
at the edge of the lake, or walking in the forest.

This book could stimulate worthwhile discussion and increase music
appreciation.