The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto: A Profound Novel from the Author of Tuesdays With Morrie

From the beloved author of the #1 New York Times bestsellers Tuesdays with Morrie and The Five People You Meet in Heaven comes his most critically acclaimed novel yet—a stunningly original tale of magical realism and love: love between a man and a woman, between an artist and his mentor, and between a musician and his God-given talent.

Narrated by the voice of Music itself, the story follows Frankie Presto, a war orphan born in a burning church, through his extraordinary journey around the world. Raised by a blind guitar teacher in Spain and gifted with a talent to change people’s lives—using six mysterious blue strings—Frankie navigates the musical landscape of the twentieth century in a journey of musical fiction, from the 1950s jazz scene to the Grand Ole Opry to Elvis mania and Woodstock, all the while searching for his childhood love.

As he becomes a famous star, he loses his way, until tragedy steals his ability to play the guitar that had so defined him. Overwhelmed by his loss, Frankie disappears for decades, reemerging late in life for one spectacular yet mystifying farewell.

Part love story, part magical mystery, The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto is Mitch Albom at his finest, a Forrest Gump-like epic about one man’s journey to discover what truly matters and the power of music to change our lives.

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Published Oct 25, 2016

368 pages

Average rating: 7.97

97 RATINGS

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Community Reviews

Mary Pat Holt
Feb 05, 2026
10/10 stars
When my friend picked this book for bookclub, I think I actually groaned & did an eye roll. Of course, I had read Tuesday's with Morrie (and liked it) but this just didn't sound like my cup of tea. I'm not at all musical, have never played an instrument & can not rattle off classical composers. But let me say, I loved this book! It didn't take long to realize that the story of Frankie was being told by "Music" and alternating chapters were a series of testimonials from artists/musicians he met along the way. Frankie's talent is obvious & his story weaves through the 20th century as he travels from Spain to Detroit, Nashville, New Orleans, California & New York. His old guitar with its 6 magical strings tell a beautiful story about love, loss, fame & family. Near the end of the story, Frankie reminded me of a musical Forrest Gump, but better.
Tatianabelle
Aug 28, 2025
9/10 stars
My new favorite book!
My oasis in this chaotic world
Jan 10, 2025
What a moving story to read... Even up to the very end. This is one of my top-tier books to read.
erikajanae
Jul 06, 2024
10/10 stars
Truly a masterpiece! This is one of my all-time favorite books. If you are a music lover, it will likely speak to you. I highly recommend the audiobook because being able to hear the music along with the text adds so much more to the experience.
hognixon
Dec 27, 2023
10/10 stars
Beautiful premise for a novel and a wonderful gift of story telling. There are few books I have the patience to reread, but this is certainly a read I could curl up with indefinitely. A must for those who appreciate the wondrous art of music!

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