Some musicians follow the path laid before them. Others have to carve their own path in order to claim destiny. Learn what it means to be exceptional in this exciting story for young musicians and songwriters. In Exceptional, four high school seniors receive the once-in-a-year chance to present their own personally written songs for their final high school spring concert. Each student has a skillset in a different instrument: the violin, the harp, the harmonica, and the steel drum. But their songs are meant to be part of a jazz performance, and their instruments aren't traditional jazz leads. Can the group develop a show that will blow the audience away? With encouragement from their music teacher and creative inspiration, the group writes their songs and prepares to play! With characters based on famous musicians Scott Tixier, the violinist; Brandee Younger, the harpist; Yvonnick Prene, the harmonica player, and Victor Provost, the steel pannist, this book is a testament to the beauty of jazz and the power of exceptional dedication. These artists inspire author Eric Thomas because they demonstrate exceptionalism. Songwriters and musicians ever-whether amateur or professional songwriters and musicians will enjoy this story, especially those who aspire, dream, and tirelessly to perfect their skills.