MAX AND THE MIRACLE DRUM
Release date: August 14, 2025
My first picture book, self-published, that I wrote years ago (not quite sure when exactly).
And I’m not sure either how the story itself was born. I vaguely remember looking at some of my picture books and thinking I should try to write something like that.
It came pretty quickly. And then I submitted the manuscript to many agents with big hopes but no one bit. I’ve written other children’s books: picture books, chapter books, but this one was always the one I led with and that I believed in the most.
It was a loved one’s determination and fierce encouragement that convinced me to take matters in my own hands and go the self-publishing route. I found a superb illustrator, Trang Hà Tran, who I knew could interpret what I saw in my head in her own unique way. And now here it is – alive.
The story follows Max, a young boy, who’s wanted a drum for as long as he can remember. His wish is granted. He’s never played an instrument before in his life but somehow, there is an immediate bond connecting him to that drum.
There is something he cannot explain and the music he makes is otherworldly, transcendent, and travels… Yes, it travels for thousands and thousands of miles.
And one night, a visitor arrives from far, far away, wanting to know where the music comes from, and wanting to know if Max can help him and his friends.
I’m very pleased with this book and I hope parents, children, educators, anyone really, find it as special as I do.
This is the first of many to come.
It is currently available on Amazon (mostly across the world as more and more countries are being added) on paperback.
It is also available on eBook on Indigo, Bol, Porrua, Rakuten Kobo, more retailers to come.
A hardcover edition will come on September 5th and is available to preorder on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Booktopia, Saxo, Hugendubel, Akademibokhandeln, Patogu Pirkti, Bookline, Bokus with others to come throughout the world, as well as a French paperback edition on Amazon (September 17).
Amazon.com
Amazon.ca
Amazon.co.uk
Barnes & Noble
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/max-and-the-miracle-drum-manu-delpech/1148049874?ean=9781069643216
Rakuten Kobo
Indigo
FNAC
WHAT THEY SAY ABOUT IT
Max and The Miracle Drum: A Heartbeat of Friendship, Rhythm, and Wonder
Some picture books do more than tell a story — they invite you to feel it, almost as if you’re part of the journey. Max and The Miracle Drum by Manu Delpech, brought to life with the charming illustrations of Hà Trần Trang, is exactly that kind of book. It’s a gentle, musical adventure that celebrates the magic of rhythm, the beauty of unexpected friendships, and the special bond we can share with animals.
Max, a young boy discovering a very special drum, finds that music can do more than entertain as it can connect, comfort, and even bring miracles. The drum becomes a bridge, helping Max communicate not only with his animal friends but also with the deeper feelings inside himself. Children will delight in how each beat of the drum unlocks something new and hopeful, making the story feel like a little song of its own.
What truly makes this book stand out is Hà Trần Trang’s enchanting artwork. Each page radiates warmth, texture, and movement that echo the lively rhythm of Max’s drum. The soft yet vibrant palette gently draws young readers into Max’s world, while the expressive animal characters add a sprinkle of humor and heart. Together, the story and illustrations create a tender celebration of friendship and music’s quiet power to bring us together.
Max and The Miracle Drum isn’t just a book to read — it’s a story to share, tap your feet to, and remember long after the last page. It’s perfect for little music lovers, animal fans, and anyone who believes in the small miracles that kindness and creativity can bring.
5/5
Monika Marzec (author & illustrator)
What an original story about this little boy, Max, who seems to be very imaginative. But shhh, I will not tell you more, promise!
5/5
Goodreads review
Touching and inspiring story! The illustrations are amazing.
5/5
Goodreads review
Max and the Miracle Drum is a book comprised of whimsy and magic. A boy, Max, who loves to drum receives one, and upon playing it is charted off to an island by a Lion to help all the animals sleep. This is a really sweet story on how using your personal talents can help others.
4/5
Katelyn J