KAREN LEFRAK
JAKE THE PHILHARMONIC DOG
by Karen LeFrak
A music-loving dog that makes his home backstage at one of the world’s most famous concert venues provides young readers with a delightful introduction to the instruments and sounds of the orchestra in JAKE THE PHILHARMONIC DOG (Walker Books; September 2006; $16.95). Written by Karen LeFrak, philanthropist and dog enthusiast, this charming story was inspired by the real-life terrier who has been the canine mascot at Avery Fisher Hall for the past decade. An active member of the New York Philharmonic Board of Directors, it was in this capacity that Karen first met Jake. Her proceeds from this debut book will be donated to that organization.
Already receiving raves from the symphonic community, Lorin Maazel praises JAKE THE PHILHARMONIC DOG as “a sheer delight,” Kurt Masur calls it “a masterpiece;” Zubin Mehta said, “Bravo!”; and Itzhak Perlman commends it as “a wonderful read for dog lovers, music lovers, and any child who loves a good story.” The first in a planned series about the Philharmonic pooch, this entertaining picture book features full-color illustrations by Marcin Baranski, as well as glossary of musical terms.
As the chief stagehand for the Philharmonic Orchestra, Richie knows he has found the perfect dog in Jake, whose musical barking and rhythmic tail wagging express an appreciation for the melodies of everyday life – from birds singing to the honking of car horns and the cadence of windshield wipers. When Richie brings Jake to work one day, the playful pup learns about real instruments and the music they make. The woodwinds and strings are calming, but percussion sounds too much like thunder, which tends to frighten him. When the conductor’s baton goes missing, Jake saves the day with the “stick” that he’s found!
In addition to her many charitable endeavors, Karen LeFrak breeds and shows champion poodles. With her retired champions, she visits pediatric units in hospitals to provide animal-assisted therapy. Karen LeFrak and her dogs provided therapy to the victims and families affected by the September 11th Twin Tower tragedy.
With JAKE THE PHILHARMONIC DOG Karen LeFrak combines two of her personal passions – bringing culture and musical appreciation to young people and an avid love of dogs – in a universally appealing tale. We’ll be in touch soon about a possible review or interview.